Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

awkward-laugh

noun

/ˈɔːkwərd læf/

Definition

A laugh that is uncomfortable or lacks genuine amusement, often occurring in social situations that are tense or embarrassing.

Examples

After telling an embarrassing story, she let out an awkward laugh that filled the silence.
During the tense meeting, his awkward laugh only made everyone more uneasy.

Meaning

An awkward laugh is a response to a situation that feels socially uncomfortable, where the laugh may not reflect true joy but rather serves as a coping mechanism.