PsychologyAugust 30, 2026

mirthful

MURTH-ful

Definition

Characterized by, or providing, feelings of joy, amusement, and lightheartedness.

Etymology

Derived from the Old English 'myrgth', meaning joy or gladness, combined with the suffix '-ful'. It evolved through Middle English to denote a state of cheerfulness.

In the news

The article uses the word to describe a positive, healthy way of existing that is supported by being able to laugh at oneself, as opposed to taking life too seriously.

Should we laugh more at ourselves? It's complicated

Read the full article ↗

BBC

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