What does uproarious mean?
Uproarious is an adjective meaning extremely funny or lively, especially in a way that provokes loud laughter. It is commonly used with words such as laughter, applause, crowds, and responses: an uproarious audience is not merely quiet and amused but visibly delighted and often noisy. The word can also describe a boisterous or tumultuous situation, particularly a crowd or event filled with excited noise. Its expressive force comes from combining the idea of a loud roar with the idea of something that provokes amusement. Uproarious is especially effective in descriptions of comedy, public performances, celebrations, and enthusiastic gatherings. Although it can suggest disorder or excessive noise in its less common sense, its dominant modern association is with hilarity. The word is understood in both British and American English and is more expressive than a simple synonym such as funny or loud.
adjectiveCausing loud laughter or expressing great merriment. It can also describe a loud, boisterous, or tumultuous scene.
- Causing or characterized by loud laughter or merriment.
- Making or involving a loud, boisterous, or tumultuous noise.
"The audience erupted in uproarious laughter when the speaker revealed the unexpected ending."
"The comedian's uproarious performance left the audience in stitches."
"An uproarious crowd gathered outside the theater, cheering the cast as they arrived."
Uproarious began with the idea of a raised roar, but today it most often describes laughter that fills a room.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does uproarious come from?
Uproarious was formed in the early 17th century from uproar and the suffix -ious. Uproar comes through French from Latin and ultimately refers to a loud cry, disturbance, or roar. The English adjective developed both a sense of being associated with loud public noise and the now-common sense of causing unrestrained laughter.
How uproarious is actually used
In modern usage, uproarious most often describes laughter, audiences, or responses that are exceptionally enthusiastic. It can also retain the older sense of being extremely noisy or tumultuous, especially when describing a crowd or public event.