Gargalesis: The English Word for Heavily Tickling Often Leading to Laughter

Life's laughter-maker gift to humans is a path back to childhood joy

My niece is three years old, and my nephew is six years old. They are both the cutest kids on the planet. You may believe I am exaggerating, but I am not. You'd understand if I showed you their photos, but I'll save that for a later post.

Sometime ago, we agreed to play a game with these two adorable monsters. The name of the game is "Crab." It begins when one of them yells "Crab!" After I hear the word, I immediately transform into a crab. My hands try to catch them like crab claws, and I scream, "The crab is coming and going to catch you!" Then they transform into fish fleeing the crab, and our chase begins. I catch them and tickle them mercilessly, and all three of us scatter laughter and joy all over the house.

For me, it's the best game in the world, and I'm sure they enjoy it as well. Years later, when they are adults, they will remember it with a smile. Lucky me!

Photo by Mieke Campbell on Unsplash

I believe that being tickled is a gift bestowed upon humans. Even if you don't feel like laughing, this simple action will have you laughing out loud in five minutes. Even my 12-year-old son and I enjoy playing tickle.

There are two terms which are originated from Ancient Greek and a bit more scientific expressions for tickling in English: Knismesis and gargalesis.

Knismesis is used for more gentle tickling. It's similar to the ant's tiny feet tickling your skin as it walks around your body.

My favorite is Gargalesis. Tickling the person vigorously until they burst out laughing. I believe it is the greatest favor a person can receive. Also, I have a natural talent for making people laugh to death with my talented hands, just like a crab’s.

I wish you a life full of friends who want to make you laugh or tickle you on a daily basis. Because this means that you have good friends really cares your happiness. Best of luck!

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