cheerful

adjective

cheer·​ful ˈchir-fəl 

1

a

: full of good spirits : merry

a cheerful host

b

: ungrudging

cheerful obedience

2

: conducive to cheer : likely to dispel gloom or worry

sunny cheerful room

cheerfully

ˈchir-f(ə-)lē 

adverb

cheerfulness

ˈchir-fəl-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• bright
• optimistic
• cheery
• sunny
• upbeat
• smiling
• buoyant

Examples of cheerful in a Sentence

She has a cheerful outlook on life.

He seems a little more cheerful today.

Recent Examples on the Web

That sort of homey detail and Karl’s cheerful disposition belie the ghastly stories that her memory holds, the ones her guest has come to hear — and capture on film. —Christine Dimattei, Sun Sentinel, 18 June 2025

But thanks to the marketers of marigolds, trumpet vines, and hydrangeas, my once-bleak inbox now also blushes with cheerful pastels. —Danny Heitman, Christian Science Monitor, 17 June 2025

Hollis: Hollis is a cheerful name with a fun energy. —Kara Nesvig, Parents, 17 June 2025

Each piece comes in a stunning teal hue adorned with cheerful florals and is paired with a retro-style lid. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

see cheer entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for cheerful

• fearful
• tearful

Kids Definition

cheerful

adjective

cheer·​ful ˈchi(ə)r-fəl 

1

a

: full of good spirits

a cheerful outlook

b

: willing sense 3

cheerful obedience

2

: pleasantly bright

a sunny cheerful room

cheerfully

-f(ə-)lē 

adverb

cheerfulness

-fəl-nəs 

noun