joyful

adjective

joy·​ful ˈjȯi-fəl How to pronounce joyful (audio)
Synonyms of joyful
: experiencing, causing, or showing joy : happy
a joyful crowd
joyful faces
a joyful occasion
joyfully adverb
joyfulness noun

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
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.
Jimena de Cruylles, creative director of Soludos, added that the brand was drawn to Draper James’ sense of femininity and fresh, joyful spirit from the start. Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 13 May 2026 Lockhart describes her personal style as joyful and maximalist. Eleni N. Gage, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 May 2026 And famed photographers Brian Bowen Smith and Poupay Jutharat were on site to catch them during this joyful time. Breanne L. Heldman, PEOPLE, 13 May 2026 The Pisces Moon in your 5th House of Creativity trine Jupiter heightens pleasure, confidence, and the sense that what feels joyful may also move something important forward. Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for joyful

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of joyful was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Joyful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/joyful. Accessed 15 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

joyful

adjective
joy·​ful ˈjȯi-fəl How to pronounce joyful (audio)
: feeling, causing, or showing joy
a joyful family reunion
joyfully adverb
joyfulness noun

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