This is the 3721st most frequent Japanese word.
くす
"くす" (kusu) can mean "to giggle" or "to smirk" in informal contexts.
In this sentence, 'くす' is part of the expression 'くすっと笑う', which means to chuckle or laugh softly. This usage conveys a subtle and restrained reaction of amusement.
彼の話を聞いてくすっと笑った。
I chuckled at his story.
Here, 'くす' appears metaphorically as part of 'くすぐったい', which literally means 'ticklish'. It conveys a slight sensory stimulation or emotional response caused by the visual experience.
薄暗い部屋で何かが光っているのを見てくすぐったい感覚がしました。
In the dim room, seeing something glowing gave me a ticklish feeling.
In this example, 'くす' is used in the phrase 'くすくす笑う', which describes quiet laughter or snickering. It typically implies a sense of humor or enjoyment uniquely entertained personally.