jocose

adjective

jō-ˈkōs How to pronounce jocose (audio)
Definition of jocosenext
as in merry
indicative of or marked by high spirits or good humor the comedian's jocose introductions kept the awards ceremony from becoming a stodgy affair

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word jocose distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of jocose are facetious, humorous, jocular, and witty. While all these words mean "provoking or intended to provoke laughter," jocose is somewhat less derogatory than facetious in suggesting habitual waggishness or playfulness.

jocose proposals

When could facetious be used to replace jocose?

The words facetious and jocose are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, facetious stresses a desire to produce laughter and may be derogatory in implying dubious or ill-timed attempts at wit or humor.

facetious comments

When is humorous a more appropriate choice than jocose?

The meanings of humorous and jocose largely overlap; however, humorous applies broadly to anything that evokes usually genial laughter and may contrast with witty in suggesting whimsicality or eccentricity.

humorous anecdotes

When can jocular be used instead of jocose?

Although the words jocular and jocose have much in common, jocular implies a usually habitual fondness for jesting and joking.

a jocular fellow

When would witty be a good substitute for jocose?

The words witty and jocose can be used in similar contexts, but witty suggests cleverness and quickness of mind.

a witty remark

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for jocose
  1. merry
  2. jolly
  3. festive
  4. cheerful
Adjective
  • Tristan’s on pigeon patrol, and a merry Christmas to all.
    — Alice Burton, Vulture, 23 Feb. 2025
  • Tori Spelling's daughter didn't have the merriest of Christmases last year.
    — Hannah Sacks, People.com, 24 Dec. 2024
Definition of merry
Adjective
  • The same jolly collection also returns to the Top Streaming Albums chart for another year.
    — Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 4 Jan. 2025
  • Winter break is a jolly time of the year for many children.
    — Holly Garcia, Parents, 31 Dec. 2024
Definition of jolly
Adjective
  • Perfect for wrapping around banisters, windows or outdoor trees, these lights bring a warm, festive touch to any haunted house setup.
    — Maria Correa, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2025
  • Children traditionally receive new clothes, money, or gifts from family and friends, adding to the festive spirit.
    — Amanda Castro, Newsweek, 28 Feb. 2025
Definition of festive
Adjective
  • Another cheerful Minervois scintillator that is balanced with bright fruit, subtle tannins and vats of joyous acidity.
    — Tom Mullen, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025
  • Buchholz remained cheerful throughout the event, saying there is nothing to complain about when a party doubles its support.
    — Timothy Nerozzi, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 28 Feb. 2025
Definition of cheerful
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.

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Cite this Entry

“Jocose.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/jocose. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

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Nglish: Translation of jocose for Spanish Speakers

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