festive

adjective

fes·​tive ˈfe-stiv How to pronounce festive (audio)
Synonyms of festivenext
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

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
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.
Perfumes Holy Berry Extrait de Parfum Holy Berry is a festive mix of red berries, oud, strawberry milk, and vanilla. Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 10 Jan. 2026 These awards reflect not only the quality of the food but also the complete experience Giorgio’s provides, from casual lunches to festive evenings out. Amplified Content Studio, Mercury News, 9 Jan. 2026 While this festive treat is not new, the packaging has been updated with detailed heart designs. Melinda Salchert, Southern Living, 9 Jan. 2026 Shilpa and Jesse talk about this festive winter bake, plus chat with award-winning author Nicola Lamb. Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for festive

Word History

Etymology

Latin festivus, from festum

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of festive was in 1613

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Festive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/festive. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

festive

adjective
fes·​tive ˈfes-tiv How to pronounce festive (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or suitable for a feast or festival
2
festively adverb
festiveness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on festive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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