joyful

adjective

joy·​ful ˈjȯi-fəl How to pronounce joyful (audio)
: 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.
The montage also shows travel snaps from 2023, a cozy hug during a snowy getaway in 2024 and a joyful family beach day. Janine Henni, People.com, 19 May 2025 Hamilton’s pastor described her as faithful, joyful, ready to help and a great mom, KOB4 reported. Sara Schilling, Sacbee.com, 19 May 2025 Learn at your own pace and ability in this joyful and relaxing class. Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 May 2025 Amid claps and joyful tears, 80 patients received certificates. Francine Kiefer, Christian Science Monitor, 14 May 2025 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 22 May. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on joyful

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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