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 of festive

• 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

Below, shop 10 pieces that will add a festive touch to any room in your home — some are even on sale! —Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 13 Dec. 2025

Holidays When the main Great British Baking Show ends each year, the holiday edition's festive lights brighten the horizon. —Tiffany Kelly, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Dec. 2025

Favorites include the Disney Festival of Holidays, a multi-cultural food festival, and special attraction overlays, including the festive transformation of it’s a small world. —Carly Caramanna, Travel + Leisure, 12 Dec. 2025

Millions of brilliant and colorful lights spark joy through the larger-than-life displays, festive holiday scenes and endless photo-worthy moments. —Drink Eat Relax Events, Charlotte Observer, 12 Dec. 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