What does humorous mean?
Humorous means funny, amusing, or intended to make people laugh. It can describe a joke, remark, story, performance, or situation, as well as a person with a playful or witty manner. The word is commonly used to describe a humorous anecdote, a humorous response, or a humorous interpretation of events. Its meaning is generally friendly and broadly positive, although the humor it describes may be used to soften criticism, challenge an authority, or make an uncomfortable subject more approachable. In formal and informal contexts alike, humorous emphasizes amusement and lightheartedness. It is a useful word because it can apply both to individual remarks and to the overall tone of a creative work, conversation, or event.
Causing or intended to cause laughter or amusement.
"The film is humorous without being superficial."
Often describes a joke, remark, story, situation, or broader style that invites amusement.
Characterized by wit, playfulness, or an amusement-oriented approach.
"She has a humorous way of turning awkward situations into jokes."
When describing a person, it usually suggests wit and lightheartedness rather than merely a tendency to tell jokes.
A humorous word has a remarkable talent for making serious ideas easier to remember.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does humorous come from?
Humorous developed from humour, which came into English from French humour and ultimately from Latin humor, meaning moisture or fluid. By extension, the Latin word came to refer to a person’s mental disposition or temperament, especially one regarded as exaggerated or unusual, and later to a quality of writing or speech that provokes laughter. The adjective humorous developed from this older sense and is now used for things that are amusing or witty.
Related word forms
How humorous is actually used
Humorous is generally neutral and can describe a person, remark, event, or broader style. It is often used for things that are funny without implying that they are intended to be mocking or offensive.