Verbs, linguistically speaking, define processes and actions. Well, that’s the syntactical aspect of these words, but there’s also a humorous side that I want to highlight in this post. Verbs can be surprisingly funny, not just in meaning but in the sounds and images they evoke. Did you know that the verb version of the popular term “noodle” means to improvise? How about “bamboozle,” which means to trick or deceive someone in a way that sounds as mischievous as the act itself? Or “skedaddle,” a playful term for running away hurriedly?
Funny Verbs
In this post, we’ll explore a list of verbs that are bound to bring a smile to your face. These verbs aren’t just functional; they’re also delightfully entertaining. Whether they remind you of a cartoon character’s antics or the silly, carefree moments in life, these verbs have a special charm that makes them stand out. Let’s dive into this collection of funny verbs and discover the humor hidden in our everyday language.
- Guffaw – To laugh loudly and boisterously. The word itself sounds hearty and exaggerated, matching the loud, uncontrolled laughter it describes.
- Chortle – To laugh in a breathy, gleeful way; a combination of a chuckle and a snort. Its quirky sound and the blend of other laughter-related verbs make it particularly funny.
- Fraternize – To associate or form a friendship with someone, especially when one is not supposed to. The formal tone of this word contrasts humorously with the often casual or forbidden nature of the behavior it describes.
- Fiddle-faddle – To waste time on unimportant or silly things. The word’s repetitive and playful nature mirrors the trivial activities it refers to.
- Kerplunk – To fall or drop with a heavy, dull sound. This word is funny because it mimics the sound it describes, adding a comic effect to the action.
- Noodle – To improvise or play casually on a musical instrument. The playful sound of this word reflects the casual, fun nature of the activity.
- Futz – To waste time or busy oneself aimlessly. This word sounds casual and somewhat dismissive, fitting the triviality of the action.
- Whiffle – To move lightly as if in a breeze, or to blow in a soft, irregular manner. The airy sound of this word matches the gentle, whimsical action it describes.
- Gambol – To run or jump about playfully. The lively, bouncy sound of this word reflects the carefree, energetic behavior it denotes.
- Bask – To lie in and enjoy warmth, typically from the sun. The word sounds relaxed and content, just like the leisurely activity it describes.
- Putter – To move or go in a casual, unhurried way. The word’s sound suggests a leisurely, almost absent-minded pace, making it amusing.
- Sashay – To walk in an ostentatious yet casual manner, typically with exaggerated movements of the hips and shoulders. The word sounds as stylish and flamboyant as the walk it describes.
- Schlep – To haul or carry something awkward or heavy. The somewhat clumsy sound of this word fits the laborious task it refers to, often used humorously to describe mundane tasks.
- Grovel – To act in an obsequious manner in order to obtain someone’s forgiveness or favor. The word’s sound and the image it conjures of someone humbling themselves make it funny.
- Jiggle – To move or cause to move with quick, light jerks. The word’s bouncy sound matches the light, humorous motion it describes.
- Bloviate – This means to speak pompously and at length, often without much substance. The word itself sounds exaggerated and almost silly, mirroring the behavior it describes.
- Bamboozle – To trick or deceive someone. The whimsical sound of this word makes it amusing, as it almost sounds like something a mischievous cartoon character would say.
- Gallivant – To go around from one place to another in the pursuit of pleasure or entertainment. The playful nature of this word conjures up images of someone happily skipping from place to place.
- Canoodle – To kiss and cuddle amorously. The word has a cute and somewhat silly ring to it, fitting for the playful, affectionate behavior it describes.
- Hobnob – To mix socially, especially with those of higher social status. This word sounds quirky and old-fashioned, evoking images of jovial gatherings.
- Skedaddle – To run away hurriedly. The playful, bouncy sound of this word fits perfectly with the frantic action it describes.
- Lollygag – To spend time aimlessly; to dawdle. This word is funny because it sounds as leisurely and carefree as the activity it describes.
- Cavort – To jump or dance around excitedly. The lively and somewhat grand sound of this word reflects the energetic movement it denotes.
- Kerfuffle – A commotion or fuss. The word itself seems to tumble out of your mouth, much like the confusion it describes.
- Waddle – To walk with short steps and a clumsy swaying motion. The sound of this word perfectly matches the comical, penguin-like walk it refers to.
- Mosey – To move in a leisurely or aimless manner. The relaxed, almost lazy sound of this word embodies the slow pace it signifies.
- Snicker – To give a half-suppressed, typically scornful laugh. The sound of this word mimics the quiet, mischievous nature of the laugh it describes.
- Frolic – To play and move about cheerfully, excitedly, or energetically. The light, joyous sound of this word fits well with the carefree fun it represents.
- Chuckle – To laugh quietly or inwardly. The soft, repetitive sound of this word is reminiscent of the gentle laugh it describes.
- Caterwaul – To make a shrill howling or wailing noise. This word is funny because it sounds as loud and unpleasant as the noise it depicts.
Final thoughts
I told you verbs can be amusing! As a language teacher with several years of experience, even I hadn’t come across some of these verbs until I prepared this post. It’s amazing, the power of language—the more you know, the more you realize how much you still don’t know. Each of these funny verbs, from “bloviate” to “waddle,” not only adds to the richness of our vocabulary but also brings a bit of joy and laughter into our everyday conversations. So next time you’re looking to inject some humor into your dialogue, remember this list and let these whimsical words work their magic.
