Where did the phrase sense of humor come from?

The phrase "sense of humor" is believed to have originated in the 17th century.

Here's a breakdown of its origins:

* Early usage: While the exact date of the first recorded use is unclear, the phrase appears in writing in the 1600s. For example, a 1651 work titled "The Anatomy of Melancholy" by Robert Burton mentions "a good sense of humour".

* Shifting meaning: The initial meaning of "humor" wasn't necessarily connected to laughter or amusement. It referred to a bodily fluid associated with temperament. Over time, "humor" came to encompass the more modern understanding of wit, irony, and the ability to find amusement in situations.

* Evolution of the phrase: The phrase "sense of humor" solidified as a way to describe an individual's capacity to perceive and appreciate humor. It gradually gained prominence in the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming a standard part of everyday language.

While the specific origin remains a bit fuzzy, we can confidently say that the phrase "sense of humor" emerged in the 17th century, reflecting the evolving understanding of humor and its connection to an individual's personality.