What does tittering mean?
Tittering is a quiet, slightly nervous way of laughing in short, high-pitched bursts. It usually suggests that the person is trying to contain amusement or embarrassment, as when someone makes an awkward remark and the audience begins tittering. The word is informal but not unkind in itself; in some contexts it can imply mocking or derisive laughter. Compared with the broadly neutral “chuckling,” tittering often carries a sharper, more self-conscious note, while “giggling” suggests a more sustained or childlike laugh. As a noun, tittering denotes the collective sound or activity of such laughter and is normally uncountable. The form is also used adjectivally, for example, to describe an audience or group whose members are laughing quietly or trying not to laugh. Tittering is useful in writing because it captures audible but restrained laughter, often revealing embarrassment, nervousness, or shared amusement that a general word such as “laughing” does not convey.
To laugh in short, quiet, high-pitched bursts, especially while trying to suppress amusement, embarrassment, or nervousness.
"The audience was tittering before the comedian reached the punch line."
The word often conveys nervousness, embarrassment, or an attempt to remain discreet.
Characterized by quiet, restrained, or nervous laughter.
"A tittering audience greeted the guest with applause."
Usually describes a group or audience and has an informal tone.
The sound or activity of laughing quietly in short bursts.
"There was a sudden tittering at the back of the theatre."
Normally used as an uncountable noun.
The noun is normally uncountable; the plural is uncommon and is used chiefly when referring to distinct instances of such laughter.
"Titterings from the audience interrupted the performance."
Tittering is laughter trying not to get caught.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does tittering come from?
Tittering comes from the English verb titter, whose sense of laughing in a suppressed manner is recorded from the early modern period. Earlier related forms have sometimes been connected with trembling or twittering, but the verb's precise ancestry remains uncertain. It is generally treated as an imitative formation rather than as a secure borrowing or direct derivative of another word.
Related word forms
How tittering is actually used
Informal. It commonly suggests self-conscious or nervous laughter, although it can also indicate derision. It is often more restrained and high-pitched than ordinary laughter.
Easily confused with tittering
Tittering means laughing quietly or nervously, whereas tattering means becoming torn or frayed.