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Definition of cordialnext
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cordial

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How is the word cordial different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of cordial are affable, genial, gracious, and sociable. While all these words mean "markedly pleasant and easy in social intercourse," cordial stresses warmth and heartiness.

our host was cordial as he greeted us

When could affable be used to replace cordial?

The synonyms affable and cordial are sometimes interchangeable, but affable implies easy approachability and readiness to respond pleasantly to conversation or requests or proposals.

though wealthy, she was affable to all

When is genial a more appropriate choice than cordial?

In some situations, the words genial and cordial are roughly equivalent. However, genial stresses cheerfulness and even joviality.

a genial companion with a ready quip

In what contexts can gracious take the place of cordial?

The words gracious and cordial can be used in similar contexts, but gracious implies courtesy and kindly consideration.

the gracious award winner thanked her colleagues

When is it sensible to use sociable instead of cordial?

While the synonyms sociable and cordial are close in meaning, sociable suggests a genuine liking for the companionship of others.

sociable people who enjoy entertaining

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of cordial
Adjective
While a statement from the prime minister’s office attempted to portray the discussions as cordial, the council painted a different account of the encounter. Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 4 June 2026 As proof of how cordial their post-split and co-parenting relationship is, Peter Phillips’s ex-wife, Autumn Kelly, is expected to be at his royal wedding to Harriet Sperling this weekend, according to reports. Rachel Burchfield, InStyle, 1 June 2026
Noun
And because Leonessa takes cues from Italy, expect a rotating menu of complimentary aperitivo-style snacks and a cocktail list full of spritzes, bitters, martinis, plus plenty of amari, vermouth, and cordials. Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 9 Apr. 2025 The cordial is made with fresh dill, citrus, sugar and water, and then blended and strained before it’s eventually shaken with vodka, lemon juice and rich simple syrup. Kevin Gray, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cordial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cordial
Adjective
  • Two rescues within the past week in San Miguel County are a reminder about preparation in Colorado's mountains as the arrival of warm weather means more people in the mountains.
    Alan Gionet, CBS News, 18 June 2026
  • The service The service is maybe a touch more reverential than other Four Seasons outposts, but interactions are warm and friendly.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 June 2026
Adjective
  • Cultural values such as achieving harmony between cultures; and slow, gracious [economic] growth.
    Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 13 June 2026
  • Even in old age, Pinkie remained a gracious host.
    David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 13 June 2026
Adjective
  • Fruit extracts clarify excess oil and buildup, while a cooling mint complex and menthol deliver a refreshing tingle, leaving your scalp feeling clean, balanced, and freshly reset.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 18 June 2026
  • That stretch represented a refreshing change for a program that had all of four winning seasons in the previous 18.
    Tom Layberger, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026
Noun
  • In this brain-freeze-y adaptation of a G&T, the tonic water is substituted by a tonic syrup.
    Scott Hocker, TheWeek, 10 June 2026
  • The decaf version is intended for both bars and home use in a variety of cocktails, from the classic espresso martini to an espresso tonic and everything in between.
    Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 8 June 2026
Adjective
  • The Strawberry Music Festival is a family-friendly bluegrass music fest held over several days in Grass Valley.
    Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 18 June 2026
  • The campsite is a budget-friendly way to spend a few nights in the area, a wonderful addition given the more luxe vibe of the other spaces that makes this property feel like a real community.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 June 2026
Adjective
  • There’s the German traveling in the opposite direction from Atlanta who could not get over the wonders of the hospitable South, from Stone Mountain to Buc-ees.
    Culture Critic, Los Angeles Times, 15 June 2026
  • There's something extra hospitable about offering a handmade cocktail without having to break out the bar cart or shaker.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 13 June 2026
Noun
  • The plan depends on drug companies sending Canada extra at reduced prices, rather than at the prices charged in the US.
    Alan Gionet, CBS News, 17 June 2026
  • Along with the 15 years to life prison sentence, Teahan was sentenced to an additional six years in prison for a conviction on related drug charges.
    Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 16 June 2026
Noun
  • The war displaced most of the Palestinian population of more than 2 million, left large parts of the territory in rubble and created widespread shortages of food, medicine and other basic supplies asGaza’s border crossings — all but one controlled by Israel — were shut.
    Wafaa Shurafa, Los Angeles Times, 14 June 2026
  • These families are already choosing between food and a roof over their heads, utilities, medicine and transportation.
    Michael Farver, Sun Sentinel, 14 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Cordial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cordial. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.

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