droll
Say it: DROHL /drəʊl/ · adjective
What “droll” means
Funny in a quiet, slightly odd way.
More precisely: Amusing in a dry, quietly odd or whimsical way.
Example: “Her droll commentary on the office bake-off had everyone crying with laughter.”
When to use it
Use it for understated humour, peculiar observations or quietly funny behaviour, often with an affectionate, slightly literary tone.
Similar words
wry, dry, amusing
Where it comes from
From French drôle, possibly from Middle Dutch drolle, 'imp, little man'.
Quick check
Your uncle solemnly introduces his houseplant as his least demanding flatmate, making everyone chuckle. His humour is…
boisterous or droll?
Show the answer
droll
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