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

The atmosphere may seem a little less colorful and little less festive. — Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

Yet behind the festive atmosphere lies a tradition rooted in the worship of deities and rituals of protection. — ABC News, 19 July 2026

Welcome guests into your home with this festive wreath from National Tree Company. — Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 16 July 2026

Founded in the late 1950s, the Latino-centric and free-to-watch Zorrilla League in East New York is known for its festive atmosphere and features many former pros. — James McClellan, Curbed, 10 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin fēstīvus "festal, fine, excellent, jovial, lively," from fēstum "feast day, festival, holiday" (noun derivative from neuter of fēstus "of a feast day, festal") + -īvus -ive — more at feast entry 1

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