Quick answer
Guffaw means a loud, boisterous laugh. It is usually pronounced guh-FAW, and today it is still readable to modern audiences, even if it sounds more deliberate than everyday speech.
Word page
Guffaw
Guffaw means a loud, boisterous laugh. It belongs to funny-sounding words and works best in light essays, vivid dialogue, and any sentence that deserves a little bounce. It still feels usable today, especially when you want a word with more character than the plainest alternative.
At a glance
funny-soundingquirkymemorable
How to say it
Meaning in plain English
In plain English, guffaw refers to a loud, boisterous laugh. It is most useful when a plain label would tell the truth but miss the tone, flavor, or comic edge.
Why this word feels absurd
Guffaw feels absurd because it has more texture than the plain alternative, giving the idea an extra bit of theatrical, comic, or overbuilt energy.
Origin and history
The origin note most often attached to guffaw is: probably imitative, 18th century. Where the history is not fully settled, the safest thing to say is that the word’s sound and tone have helped keep it memorable.
Is this word still used today?
Guffaw is still usable today, especially when you want language that feels more distinctive than the plainest modern alternative.
Example sentences
- His attempt at seriousness ended in a guffaw from the back row.
- She let out a guffaw so loud that the dog looked offended.
- The courtroom sketch turned one suppressed smile into a full guffaw.
- He tried not to guffaw during the speech and failed heroically.
When should you use this word?
Use guffaw when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in light essays, vivid dialogue, and any sentence that deserves a little bounce.
Similar words
Belly laugh, Cackle, Roar, Snort, Chortle
Opposite or contrasting words
Whisper, Murmur, Deadpan silence
Common questions
- What does guffaw mean? A loud, boisterous laugh.
- How do you pronounce guffaw? It is commonly pronounced guh-FAW.
- Is guffaw still used today? Guffaw is still usable today, especially when you want language that feels more distinctive than the plainest modern alternative.
- When should you use guffaw? Use guffaw when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in light essays, vivid dialogue, and any sentence that deserves a little bounce.
- What words are similar to guffaw? Similar words include Belly laugh, Cackle, Roar, and Snort.
Editorial note
Edited by Absurd Words. Last updated: May 9, 2026. See the editorial policy for how definitions, examples, labels, and update checks are handled on the site.