festivity

noun

fes·​tiv·​i·​ty fe-ˈsti-və-tē How to pronounce festivity (audio)
fə-
plural festivities
1
2
: the quality or state of being festive : gaiety
3
: festive activity

Examples of festivity in a Sentence

The decorations give the hall an air of festivity. The festivities will include a parade, a concert, and games for children. We enjoyed the New Year's Eve festivities.
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.
Cambodian community hosts festivities The Cambodian community is celebrating Khmer New Year and the harvest season with festivities that reflect Buddhist customs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 26-27 at Colina del Sol Park, 5295 52nd Place. Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Apr. 2025 The festivities surrounding the ceremony will also extend beyond the awards. Okla Jones, Essence, 22 Apr. 2025 Amid the festivities, in the Reading Nook, the first lady shared a message of kindness and compassion while reading Bunny with a Big Heart to a group of eager children. Heather Hunter, The Washington Examiner, 21 Apr. 2025 As captured in the incredible wedding photos by Nick and Lauren Photography, one male lion wanted to take part in the festivities, witnessing the ceremony from behind a plate-glass wall. Rachel McRady, People.com, 21 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for festivity

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of festivity was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Festivity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/festivity. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

festivity

noun
fes·​tiv·​i·​ty fes-ˈtiv-ət-ē How to pronounce festivity (audio)
plural festivities
1
2
: the quality or state of being festive
3
: festive activity

More from Merriam-Webster on festivity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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