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Literary notes about giggle (AI summary)

In literature, the word giggle often conveys a nuanced blend of humor, nervousness, and even subversive irony. It can signal an almost uncontrollable burst of emotion that hints at secret sentiments—a momentary lapse nearly betraying a character’s composure [1]—or, on the other hand, serve as a marker of youthful innocence and irony in social interactions, as when a school-girl’s delicate amusement earns credit [2]. Moreover, a giggle may emerge as a nervous, sheepish response during awkward or tense situations [3] or act as a quiet rebellion in environments where decorum is expected, as seen in the subtle yet ironic mirth among aristocrats [4]. Such varied uses demonstrate the word’s rich versatility in evoking both levity and deeper emotional complexity.
  1. A hysterical giggle very nearly betrayed her.
    — from Baby Mine by Margaret Mayo
  2. You have cured her of her school-girl's giggle; she really does you credit.”
    — from Emma by Jane Austen
  3. "Oh, I say!" cried John, wincing, with a kind of sorry giggle; and I don't know whether he looked or felt the more sheepish.
    — from My Friend Prospero by Henry Harland
  4. Courtiers, it is supposed, look from their windows, and giggle.
    — from The French Revolution: A History by Thomas Carlyle

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