joyful

adjective

joy·​ful ˈjȯi-fəl How to pronounce joyful (audio)
Synonyms of joyful
: experiencing, causing, or showing joy : happy
a joyful crowd
joyful faces
a joyful occasion
joyfully
ˈjȯi-fə-lē How to pronounce joyful (audio)
adverb
joyfulness noun

Synonyms of joyful

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Examples of joyful in a Sentence

We were joyful at the news. the news of the child's safe return made us all joyful
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But there have been joyful noises too, around the semiquincentennial. — Literary Hub, 26 Aug. 2026 To channel this sense of joyful minimalism, pair a bold color with playful accents, rich textures, and meaningful décor that brings personality to the space without overwhelming it. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 25 Aug. 2026 Dolly Parton’s unmistakable voice, joyful spirit, and remarkable generosity touched generations of Americans and many others around the world. — Emily R. Condon, USA Today, 25 Aug. 2026 Since then, however, touring has not been a joyful experience for Pakistan. — Ben Jones, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for joyful

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of joyful was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Joycean
joyful
joyfully
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Joyful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/joyful. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

joyful

adjective
joy·​ful ˈjȯi-fəl How to pronounce joyful (audio)
: feeling, causing, or showing joy
a joyful family reunion
joyfully
-fə-lē How to pronounce joyful (audio)
adverb
joyfulness noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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