interjection Very common

lol

ehl-oh-EHL

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Lol (interjection) means used in writing to show that something is funny or that a message is meant light-heartedly. Example: “Just spilled coffee on my keyboard again, lol.”

interjection

Used in writing to show that something is funny or that a message is meant light-heartedly.

"Just spilled coffee on my keyboard again, lol."

"I forgot my own birthday, lol."

"That meme had me in tears, lol."

verb

To laugh out loud, especially in reaction to something online.

"We were all lolling at the photo she posted last night."

"He lolled at the video and sent it to everyone he knew."

"I was lolling so hard at his reply."

How to use lol

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA texting shorthand for laughter or amusement — often used even when the person isn't actually laughing.

When to use it

Very informal; used in texting, chat, and social media, not in formal writing.

Memory tip

In casual chat, "lol" often just softens a sentence rather than signaling real laughter.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

lol at that so funny, lol lol forever

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Test yourself on “lol” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Just spilled coffee on my keyboard again, _____.

Etymology

An acronym for "laughing out loud," said to have been coined by a Canadian user named Wayne Pearson in the early-to-mid 1980s and first recorded in writing in 1989.

· First attested 1989

Class of 1989 lol joined the language around 1989.

See the full Class of 1989 →

Synonyms

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haha hehe lmao rofl 😂

Related words

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Frequently asked questions

What does “lol” mean?

The word “lol” means used in writing to show that something is funny or that a message is meant light-heartedly. In plain terms, a texting shorthand for laughter or amusement — often used even when the person isn't actually laughing.

How do you pronounce “lol”?

“Lol” is pronounced ehl-oh-EHL (/ɛl.oʊˈɛl/ in IPA).

How do you use “lol” in a sentence?

Here is “lol” used in a sentence: “I forgot my own birthday, lol.”

What part of speech is “lol”?

Depending on how it is used, “lol” can be an interjection and a verb.

Where does the word “lol” come from?

The word “lol” dates back to around 1989. An acronym for "laughing out loud," said to have been coined by a Canadian user named Wayne Pearson in the early-to-mid 1980s and first recorded in writing in 1989.

Is “lol” a common word?

“Lol” is a very common word in modern English.

How many meanings does “lol” have?

“Lol” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: used in writing to show that something is funny or that a message is meant light-heartedly.

What does "lol" stand for?

"Lol" stands for "laughing out loud." People type it in messages and online posts to show that something is funny or that a remark is meant light-heartedly rather than seriously. Over time it has softened, and many now use it simply to keep a message friendly, even when they are not literally laughing.

What is the difference between "lol" and "lmao"?

Both signal laughter in writing. "Lol" (laughing out loud) is mild and general-purpose, often just marking a friendly or joking tone. "Lmao" suggests stronger, harder laughter at something genuinely funny. "Lol" is the gentler, more neutral of the two and suits a wider range of everyday messages.

Is "lol" formal or informal?

"Lol" is highly informal. It belongs to texting, chat, social media, and casual messaging between friends. Avoid it in formal writing, professional emails, essays, or business communication, where it looks unprofessional. In relaxed digital conversation, however, it is one of the most common and widely understood expressions.

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