noun / verb

humor

A person's prevailing mood or inclination.

She is in good humor after a restful night's sleep.

Etymology

Humor originally meant bodily fluid. Because older medical theory linked the balance of such fluids with temperament, the word came to name a person’s mood or disposition.

More examples

  • His ill humor fades after breakfast.
  • I humor my nephew by letting him choose our seats.
  • Please humor me and check the lock once more.

Forms

humor · humors · humored · humoring

Similar words

mood
The everyday term for a person's current emotional state.
disposition
Usually describes someone's lasting temperament rather than a passing mood.
indulge
Emphasizes granting wishes rather than merely keeping someone content.