titter

[ tit-er ]

verb (used without object)

1. to laugh in a restrained, self-conscious, or affected way, as from nervousness or in ill-suppressed amusement.

   Synonyms: giggle, snigger, snicker

noun

1. a tittering laugh.

titter

/ ˈtɪtə /

verb

1. intr to snigger, esp derisively or in a suppressed way
2. tr to express by tittering

noun

1. a suppressed laugh, chuckle, or snigger

Derived Forms

• ˈtitteringly, adverb
• ˈtittering, adjective
• ˈtitterer, noun

Other Words From

• titter·er noun
• titter·ing·ly adverb
• un·titter·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of titter¹

1610–20; perhaps < Scandinavian; compare Old Norse tittra to quiver, Swedish (dial.) tittra to giggle

Word History and Origins

Origin of titter¹

C17: of imitative origin

Example Sentences

There is an appreciative titter from the parents, and one gets the sense that this is a line that will be repeated at birthday parties for years to come.

From Time

Like a Kinsey Report for the big-data era, there's a gold mine of findings here to titter about.

From The Daily Beast

Admittedly, Weinergate came with a set of fun photos to titter over.

From The Daily Beast

There was a very audible titter in the corner where three thoughtless young girls had squeezed themselves into one rocking-chair.

From Project Gutenberg

On one occasion, a general titter arose at his florid picture of the happiness which must proceed from this event.

From Project Gutenberg

Their appearance immediately attracted notice, and no sooner had they taken their seats than Duncan and Llewellyn began to titter.

From Project Gutenberg

Another titter through the court-room, the colonel and the squire blushing redder than ever.

From Project Gutenberg

Every one knew what a favourite Eric had once been, so this speech created a slight titter.

From Project Gutenberg