joyful

adjective

joy·​ful ˈjȯi-fəl How to pronounce joyful (audio)
: experiencing, causing, or showing joy : happy
a joyful crowd
joyful faces
a joyful occasion
joyfully adverb
joyfulness noun

Examples of joyful in a Sentence

We were joyful at the news. the news of the child's safe return made us all joyful
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.
The transformation from investment banker to mental health advocate wasn't exactly a joyful moment for Miller. Nia Bowers, USA Today, 4 Sep. 2025 In addition to the artistic capsule, the brand is expanding its world of joyful fashions by tapping eight different global partners to interpret Jacobs’ fall 2025 lineup through their own limited-edition products. Emily Mercer, Footwear News, 4 Sep. 2025 Sunny and joyful, La Grande Dame 2018 by Veuve Clicquot x Simon Porte Jacquemus is an ode to women, tracing its spirit back to Madame Clicquot herself. Felicity Carter, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025 The researchers were interested in four music types classed as joyful, soft, stirring (passionate) and sad. New Atlas, 2 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for joyful

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of joyful was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Joyful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/joyful. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

joyful

adjective
joy·​ful ˈjȯi-fəl How to pronounce joyful (audio)
: feeling, causing, or showing joy
a joyful family reunion
joyfully adverb
joyfulness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on joyful

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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