joyful

adjective

joy·​ful ˈjȯi-fəl 

: experiencing, causing, or showing joy : happy

a joyful crowd

joyful faces

a joyful occasion

joyfully

ˈjȯi-fə-lē 

adverb

joyfulness noun

Synonyms of joyful

• thankful
• delighted
• happy
• pleased
• glad
• satisfied
• joyous

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

Following the film’s premiere, many critics praised it for both a joyful depiction of Tokyo’s ballroom dance scene and its ability to supplement its joyful romantic swings with pathos. — Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 29 July 2026

Joining him will be Matt Brannagan of the Hoffman Institute Foundation, an organization that focuses on helping adults transform their beliefs and perceptions to live a more joyful, balanced life. — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 29 July 2026

From cute to hilarious and sometimes even weird, this year’s selection highlights joyful, inventive images. — Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026

News to Know If there was some new big furor involving the WNBA this weekend, it was overshadowed by the league’s joyful celebration of its 30th season. — Matt Piper, New York Times, 26 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

joyful

adjective

joy·​ful ˈjȯi-fəl 

: feeling, causing, or showing joy

a joyful family reunion

joyfully

-fə-lē 

adverb

joyfulness noun