PhrasesHub

a barrel of laughs

    Definitions

      • to describe something as fun or enjoyable
        To indicate that a situation or event is entertaining, amusing, or enjoyable

      • sarcastic remark
        To sarcastically refer to a situation or event that is not at all fun or enjoyable

    Examples of a barrel of laughs

    • The comedian's stand-up routine was a barrel of laughs.

      The phrase "a barrel of laughs" is used to describe something that is extremely funny and entertaining. In this example, the comedian's performance was so funny that the audience laughed continually, like the sound of barrel being filled with laughter.

    • Our team building activity was a barrel of laughs.

      The phrase "a barrel of laughs" is also used to describe a positive and enjoyable experience. In this example, the team building activity was so enjoyable and entertaining that it brought a lot of laughter and joy to the team members.

    • The party was a barrel of laughs.

      The phrase "a barrel of laughs" is often used to describe social events or gatherings that are filled with laughter and enjoyment. In this example, the party was so enjoyable and entertaining that it brought a lot of laughter and joy to the guests.

    • Dealing with our difficult coworker was not a barrel of laughs.

      The phrase "a barrel of laughs" can also be used to describe a negative or unpleasant situation that produces the opposite emotion – frustration, anger, or sadness. In this example, dealing with the difficult coworker was not enjoyable or entertaining, and brought more frustration and stress than laughter.

    • The new comedy show was a barrel of laughs. Everyone was laughing so hard that they couldn't catch their breath.

      This example is a common use of the idiom "a barrel of laughs". The show was so funny that everyone found it incredibly entertaining, resulting in them laughing non-stop.

    • His stand-up comedy routine was a barrel of laughs. The audience couldn't stop laughing, causing him to earn a standing ovation.

      This example demonstrates how the idiom "a barrel of laughs" can be used to describe an individual's performance, in this case, a comedian's comedy routine. The audience found the comedian's jokes extremely humorous, resulting in them laughing uncontrollably.

    • The comedy club was a barrel of laughs last night. Everyone left with smiles on their faces.

      This example shows how the idiom "a barrel of laughs" can be used to describe an entire location, such as a comedy club. The audience at the club had a great time and left the club feeling happy and content.

    • Their comedy sketch show was a barrel of laughs, with each sketch being funnier than the last.

      This example demonstrates how the idiom "a barrel of laughs" can be used to describe multiple things, in this case, each individual sketch from the comedy show. The audience found every sketch incredibly entertaining and funny.### Additional Resources:Here's an article from Grammarbook.com that provides further information about "a barrel of laughs" and some examples of how it's used in different contexts: https://www.grammarbook.com/idioms/a-barrel-of-laughs.aspYou can also check out this video from the National Geographic channel that explains the origins and history of the idiom "a barrel of laughs": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZi1fVCvkQ0Both of these resources can provide additional insight and examples to help reinforce your understanding of the idiom "a barrel of laughs".


    Conclusion

    The idiom "a barrel of laughs" can be used both sincerely to describe a fun or enjoyable experience and sarcastically to suggest the opposite. It is a versatile phrase that can convey a range of meanings depending on the context in which it is used.

    Origin of "a barrel of laughs"

    The origin of the idiom "a barrel of laughs" is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the early to mid-20th century. The phrase likely draws on the image of a barrel, traditionally associated with laughter and joviality, as barrels are often depicted in cartoons and comedies as sources of amusement. The idiom may have evolved from earlier expressions that similarly used the imagery of laughter and merriment associated with barrels.

    One theory suggests that the idiom may have originated from the idea of laughter being stored or contained in a barrel, ready to be unleashed and enjoyed. Another possibility is that the phrase emerged from the concept of a barrel being filled with various forms of entertainment, such as jokes or funny anecdotes, akin to a barrel of fun. Over time, the idiom "a barrel of laughs" has become a common expression to convey the idea of something being fun or enjoyable, with the added layer of sarcasm for situations that are anything but amusing.