English Idioms

Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms

Laughing stock

Meaning

The idiom "laughing stock" refers to someone or something that is typically the source of amusement or ridicule among others. It can also refer to a person or thing that is particularly vulnerable or easy to ridicule.

Usage

  • The comedian's jokes were such laughing stock that everyone in the audience couldn't stop laughing for the entire show.
  • The company's disastrous launch of their new product was a laughing stock among their competitors.
  • The politician's controversial comments on social media made him a laughing stock among his opponents and even some of his own supporters.
  • The student's poor performance on the exam was a laughing stock among his classmates.
  • The car's engine failure on the highway turned out to be a laughing stock among the other drivers who had to pull over to help. The usage of the idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used in a positive or negative way, depending on the situation. For example, it can be used to describe someone or something that is amusing or entertaining, but it can also be used to describe something or someone that is ridiculed or mocked.

Roots and History

The idiom "laughing stock" originated in the 16th century from the Old English phrase "læfisc." It was originally used to refer to a person or thing that was particularly vulnerable or easy to ridicule. Over time, it evolved to mean someone or something that was typically the source of amusement or ridicule among others. The meaning of the idiom has remained relatively consistent over time, but its usage may have varied depending on cultural and regional factors. For example, in some regions or cultures, it may be more common to use a different idiom with a similar meaning.

Synonyms in English

  • Punchline
  • Comedy gold
  • Joke of the day
  • Ridiculous
  • Laughing matter

Synonyms in other languages

  • French: le rire (laughter)
  • Spanish: risa (laughter)
  • German: Gelächter (laughter)
  • Italian: riso (laughter)
  • Chinese: 笑话 (joke)

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