Definition
To laugh — to make sounds and movements that show you find something funny.
Example
I bambini ridevano felici nel parco.
Show translation
The children were laughing happily in the park.
Etymology
From Latin *rīdēre* ("to laugh"), from Proto-Indo-European *\*wreyd-*. The same root gives Spanish *reír*, French *rire*, and Portuguese *rir* — all meaning "to laugh." The Latin verb also produced the English word *ridiculous* (literally "worthy of laughing at").
Cultural note
In Italian culture, laughter and a good sense of humour (*senso dell'umorismo*) are highly valued in social settings. The phrase **ridere di gusto** ("to laugh with relish/heartily") captures the Italian appreciation for full, uninhibited laughter. Be careful not to confuse *ridere* with *sorridere* ("to smile") — the latter implies a gentler, quieter expression, while *ridere* is full-on laughter.