joyous

adjective

joy·​ous ˈjȯi-əs How to pronounce joyous (audio)
Synonyms of joyousnext
: joyful
a joyous occasion
a joyous celebration
joyously adverb
joyousness noun

Examples of joyous in a Sentence

a mood of joyous anticipation a joyous crowd eagerly awaiting the countdown to midnight on New Year's Eve
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.
So, have a joyous holiday season, and make an informed decision about what role alcohol will play in those celebrations. William J. Burman, Denver Post, 24 Dec. 2025 In Brewer’s hands, the true story of a husband and wife who form a Neil Diamond cover band and find salvation in music plays like a modern-day Frank Capra movie, joyous and painful in equal measures, but ultimately celebratory of its characters and generous toward the audience in its pleasures. Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 23 Dec. 2025 Seeing where the clues lead, the friends embark on a joyous adventure of songs, dances, silly challenges, and plenty of zany energy from their wacky striped friend. Sarah Scott, Parents, 22 Dec. 2025 For owners Ashish Haas Gupta and Steve Gupta Haas, the house has been at the heart of weddings, community brunches and other joyous gatherings. David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 20 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for joyous

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of joyous was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Joyous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/joyous. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

joyous

adjective
joy·​ous ˈjȯi-əs How to pronounce joyous (audio)
: feeling, causing, or showing joy : joyful
joyously adverb
joyousness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on joyous

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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