Dutch · Emotions & States
lachen
to laugh
Beginnerverb
Definition
To make sounds expressing amusement.
Example
Hij lacht om de grap.
He laughs at the joke.
Etymology
The word 'lachen' comes from the Old Dutch 'lahhan', which is related to the Proto-Germanic '*lakhōną'. The term has a long history in the Germanic language family, retaining its core meaning of expressing mirth.
How & Where It’s Used
'Lachen' is an informal verb used in everyday conversation to describe laughter. It appears in both spoken and written contexts but is more prevalent in colloquial language.
Literary Heritage
It features in various Dutch proverbs and idiomatic expressions emphasizing the importance of laughter in life.