lighthearted

adjective

light·​heart·​ed ˈlīt-ˌhär-təd How to pronounce lighthearted (audio)
1
: free from care, anxiety, or seriousness : happy-go-lucky
a lighthearted mood
2
: cheerfully optimistic and hopeful : easygoing
they can be lighthearted in the midst of miseryH. J. Forman
lightheartedly adverb
lightheartedness noun

Examples of lighthearted in a Sentence

his lighthearted attitude in the face of danger was the source of some concern
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.
New & Noteworthy Hint's Winter Variety Pack captures the chilly, lighthearted spirit with cheerful flavors and clean ingredients. Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Oct. 2025 This is right up your alley as a lighthearted Air sign, and your social life has a lot to do with it this month. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 6 Oct. 2025 In an increasingly crowded sports month, the lighthearted newcomer will help baseball keep its grip on the public consciousness. Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 2 Oct. 2025 So getting the chance to do something lighthearted and fun, like Happy Gilmore [2], was a dream. Leila Cobo, Billboard, 1 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lighthearted

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lighthearted was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lighthearted.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lighthearted. Accessed 10 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

lighthearted

adjective
light·​heart·​ed -ˈhärt-əd How to pronounce lighthearted (audio)
: free from worry
lightheartedly adverb
lightheartedness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on lighthearted

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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