adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle, noun or participle which takes 'suru'
laughing foolishly; smiling thoughtlessly
Describes a silly, empty-headed laugh or smile, often with a nuance of frivolity or lack of seriousness.
彼は叱られてもヘラヘラ笑っている。
Even when scolded, he just grins foolishly.
adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle, noun or participle which takes 'suru'
indiscreetly; carelessly; flippantly
Used for speaking or acting without proper thought, often in a way that is too casual or reveals too much.
彼は秘密をヘラヘラとしゃべってしまった。
He carelessly blabbed the secret.
na-adjective, adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle, noun or participle which takes 'suru'
Describes paper, cloth, or similar materials that are thin and lack substance. Can also be used figuratively for weak arguments or excuses.
この紙はヘラヘラしていてすぐ破れる。
This paper is so flimsy it tears right away.
adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle, noun or participle which takes 'suru'
flaring up; bursting into flames
Archaic mimetic use for flames suddenly rising. Not used in modern Japanese outside historical or literary contexts.
古文では、火がヘラヘラと燃え上がる様子を表すことがある。
In classical texts, ヘラヘラ can describe flames flaring up.