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festive

adjective
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fes·​tive | \ ˈfe-stiv How to pronounce festive (audio) \

Definition of festive

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
Other Words from festive Synonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about festive

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Other Words from festive

festively adverb
festiveness noun

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.
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Recent Examples on the Web The festive atmosphere in Jerusalem drew criticism in Israel, which holds a more solemn annual Holocaust remembrance in April. — Felicia Schwartz, WSJ, "World Leaders Remember the Holocaust in Jerusalem," 23 Jan. 2020 As festive as red lipstick is at this time of year, the shade can feel a little predictable at holiday parties. — New York Times, "The Modern Appeal of Black Lipstick," 27 Dec. 2019 On Wednesday, Kelly Ripa was just as festive as her ornaments, wearing silver, embellished babydoll Mary Jane pumps, along with a glittery red pleated skirt. — Robyn Merrett, PEOPLE.com, "Kelly Ripa Shows Off Sequined Holiday Outfit in Selfie Videos by the Christmas Tree," 26 Dec. 2019 Vendors hawked snacks and holiday gifts, adding to the festive atmosphere. — USA TODAY, "Thousands flock to West Bank town of Bethlehem for Christmas," 25 Dec. 2019 Vendors hawked snacks and holiday gifts, adding to the festive atmosphere. — Arkansas Online, "Thousands mark Christmas in West Bank town of Bethlehem," 24 Dec. 2019 The plus-sized-clothes retailer Eloquii has also dived into the snuggly trend: this cropped coat is the color of funfetti cake and just as festive. — Rachel Syme, The New Yorker, "Holiday Gift Guide: How to Channel Your Inner Maximalist," 6 Dec. 2019 Seasonal music adds to the festive atmosphere, food is served in the Garden Bistro and museum shops are open for those looking for special gifts. — Roger Naylor, azcentral, "Here's where to see the best Christmas lights around Arizona," 22 Nov. 2019 Seasonal displays are popping up throughout the area, adding to the festive atmosphere at home, businesses, public buildings and more. — Carol Kovach, cleveland, "Seasonal decorations, Halloween fun abound as the big day nears: Sun Postings," 22 Oct. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'festive.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of festive

1613, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for festive

Latin festivus, from festum

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Time Traveler for festive

Time Traveler

The first known use of festive was in 1613

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Statistics for festive

Last Updated

12 Feb 2020

Cite this Entry

“Festive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/festive. Accessed 23 Feb. 2020.

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More Definitions for festive

festive

adjective
How to pronounce festive (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of festive

: cheerful and exciting : suited to a celebration or holiday
British : of or relating to Christmas

See the full definition for festive in the English Language Learners Dictionary

festive

adjective
fes·​tive | \ ˈfe-stiv How to pronounce festive (audio) \

Kids Definition of festive

1 : having to do with a feast or festival
2 : very merry and joyful festive decorations

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More from Merriam-Webster on festive

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for festive

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with festive

Spanish Central: Translation of festive

Nglish: Translation of festive for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of festive for Arabic Speakers

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