What is laugh off? How to use in English

The phrase "laugh off" can be traced back to the early 20th century. The term is a result of combining the words "laugh" and "off," which originally meant "from" or "away from." In its early usage, "laugh off" referred to the act of dismissing or removing something that caused amusement, such as a joke that went too far or an awkward social situation. It was used primarily in the context of lighthearted situations and social events. Over time, the meaning of "laugh off" has evolved to also include the idea of dealing with adversity or criticism in a humorous and lighthearted manner. This usage typically involves taking negative experiences or feedback and finding the humor in them, rather than letting them get overly serious or upsetting. In modern usage, "laugh off" is commonly used in conversations and texts, particularly in informal settings, to express the idea of being able to handle and overcome challenges with a sense of humor and optimism.