sidesplitting
UK[ˈsaɪdsplɪtɪŋ]US[ˈsaɪdsplɪtɪŋ]
adj
extremely funny; causing loud, uncontrollable laughter.
Morpheme Breakdown
side
splitting
side
flank, lateral part of the body
splitting
to divide, cleave
Etymology
the word 'sidesplitting' is a vivid english compound adjective formed from two native elements. it literally describes something so intensely humorous it feels as if it could cause one's sides to split open from the convulsions of laughter. the term 'side' has old english origins, while 'split' entered english from middle dutch. this metaphorical use, equating physical rupture with extreme emotional reaction, exemplifies the creative, hyperbolic nature of english humor descriptors, emerging in the 18th century to characterize comedy of overwhelming force.
Analysis
Structure: side + splitting
side (old english, meaning "flank, lateral part of the body") + splitting (present participle of the verb 'split', from middle dutch 'splitten', meaning "to divide, cleave")
Examples
the comedian's sidesplitting impersonation had the entire audience in tears.
we watched a sidesplitting comedy that left our stomachs aching from laughter.
his anecdote about the travel mishap was absolutely sidesplitting.