festive

adjective

fes·​tive ˈfe-stiv 

1

: of, relating to, or suitable for a feast or festival

a festive occasion

The house looks festive during the holidays.

2

: joyful, gay

a festive mood

festively adverb

festiveness noun

Synonyms

• merry
• jolly
• cheerful

Examples of festive in a Sentence

The house looks very festive during the holidays.

She was in a festive mood.

The reunion will be a festive occasion.

Recent Examples on the Web

Futureplusx 38-Piece Artificial Pumpkin Set Pumpkins are the must-have gourds for bringing a festive look to your home. —Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 5 Sep. 2025

On football weekends, the whole town buzzes with maroon pride, fans, and festive energy. —Jill Robbins, Southern Living, 5 Sep. 2025

Just a few autumnal accents can turn your mantel into a harvest haven—and a festive display doesn’t need to break the bank. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Sep. 2025

Disney Cruise Line Disney sails Halloween on the High Seas voyages in September and October, where passengers will find special decor – including a magical Halloween tree – themed desserts and drinks and other festive activities. —Nathan Diller, USA Today, 4 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin festivus, from festum

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for festive

• restive
• congestive
• digestive
• suggestive

Kids Definition

festive

adjective

fes·​tive ˈfes-tiv 

1

: of, relating to, or suitable for a feast or festival

2

: joyous, merry

festively adverb

festiveness noun