The short answer is: both spellings are correct, but they are used in different regions. “Humor” is standard in American English, while “humour” is preferred in British English and Commonwealth countries like Canada, Australia, and India.
This article explains the quick answer, the history of the word, the British vs. American spelling rules, common mistakes, and examples from real-world writing. By the end, you’ll know exactly which spelling to use for your readers.
Humour or Humor – Quick Answer
Both are correct spellings:
- Humor → American English
- Humour → British English and Commonwealth
Example:
- US: Her sense of humor made the party fun.
- UK: His sense of humour made the party fun.
The Origin of Humour or Humor
The word comes from the Latin umor meaning “moisture” or “fluid.” In Middle English, “humour” was linked to medieval medical theory, where body fluids influenced personality.
Over time, the meaning shifted to “comic quality” in both spellings. When spelling reforms simplified American English in the 18th–19th centuries, “humor” dropped the -u.
British English vs American English Spelling
British English often keeps the -our ending, while American English simplifies it to -or.
Examples:
- Colour (UK) → Color (US)
- Honour (UK) → Honor (US)
- Humour (UK) → Humor (US)
Comparison Table
| Word (UK) | Word (US) |
|---|---|
| Humour | Humor |
| Colour | Color |
| Favour | Favor |
| Honour | Honor |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- If your audience is American → Use humor.
- If your audience is British/Commonwealth → Use humour.
- If writing for a global audience → Choose one style and stick to it for consistency.
Common Mistakes with Humour or Humor
- Mixing both forms in the same text → Her humor was witty, but his humour was better. (❌ Wrong)
- Using “humor” in UK academic writing → marked as a spelling error.
- Forgetting consistency in brand tone → makes writing look unprofessional.
Humour or Humor in Everyday Examples
- Emails:
- US: Thank you for your humor during the meeting.
- UK: Thank you for your humour during the meeting.
- News:
- US: Late-night shows thrive on political humor.
- UK: British satire is built on dry humour.
- Social Media:
- US: That meme has dark humor.
- UK: British Twitter is full of sarcastic humour.
- Formal Writing:
- Adjust spelling to your audience or institution’s style guide.
Humour or Humor – Google Trends & Usage Data
Google Trends shows:
- “Humor” dominates in the US, Philippines, and other American English regions.
- “Humour” dominates in the UK, Canada, India, Australia, and much of Africa.
Table of Popularity:
| Country | Preferred Spelling |
|---|---|
| United States | Humor |
| United Kingdom | Humour |
| Canada | Humour |
| Australia | Humour |
| India | Humour |
FAQs
1. Is humour or humor wrong?
Neither is wrong; it depends on region.
2. Why do Americans spell it “humor”?
Spelling reforms simplified words by dropping silent letters.
3. Should I use humour or humor in academic writing?
Follow your institution’s style (APA, MLA, Oxford, etc.).
4. Can I mix both spellings?
No, stay consistent for clarity.
5. Does the meaning change?
No, both mean the same thing.
6. Which spelling does Google prefer?
Both rank, but “humor” has higher global search volume.
7. What about humorist vs humourist?
“Humorist” (US) is common; “humourist” (UK) is rare but valid.
Conclusion
The difference between “humour” and “humor” is simple: both are correct, but each fits a different audience. Americans use “humor,” while the British and Commonwealth nations use “humour.” The meaning is identical, but spelling consistency shows professionalism and respect for your readers.
If you’re writing globally, choose one version and stick with it. For American readers, go with humor. For British or international audiences, choose humour. By keeping your usage clear and consistent, your writing will always strike the right balance of accuracy and style
