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Definition of cordialnext
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cordial

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How is the word cordial different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of cordial are affable, genial, gracious, and sociable. While all these words mean "markedly pleasant and easy in social intercourse," cordial stresses warmth and heartiness.

our host was cordial as he greeted us

When could affable be used to replace cordial?

The synonyms affable and cordial are sometimes interchangeable, but affable implies easy approachability and readiness to respond pleasantly to conversation or requests or proposals.

though wealthy, she was affable to all

When is genial a more appropriate choice than cordial?

In some situations, the words genial and cordial are roughly equivalent. However, genial stresses cheerfulness and even joviality.

a genial companion with a ready quip

In what contexts can gracious take the place of cordial?

The words gracious and cordial can be used in similar contexts, but gracious implies courtesy and kindly consideration.

the gracious award winner thanked her colleagues

When is it sensible to use sociable instead of cordial?

While the synonyms sociable and cordial are close in meaning, sociable suggests a genuine liking for the companionship of others.

sociable people who enjoy entertaining

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of cordial
Adjective
While there, George recalls Strowman being cordial to staff and customers alike. Brayden Garcia, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Oct. 2025 Or, go for a cordial, which layers meats, cheese, lettuce and tomato between cheesy bread. Lyndsay C. Green, Freep.com, 21 Oct. 2025
Noun
To wit, cordials, shrubs and kombuchas are all made in-house, inspired by seasonality. Brad Japhe, The Hollywood Reporter, 15 Feb. 2025 There was bad news for American whiskey, however, which was down by nearly two percent (more than $5 billion) and cordials (down 3.6 percent). Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 14 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cordial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cordial
Adjective
  • The National Weather Service recommends stocking essential items like non-perishable food, water and warm clothing for severe winter events.
    Diana Leyva, Nashville Tennessean, 8 Nov. 2025
  • The lookalike duo flashed their identical warm smiles while attending the Mothers & Daughters 4 Choice event back in '94.
    Stephanie Sengwe, PEOPLE, 8 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • After the initial encounter, sending a brief email or text is both gracious and strategic.
    Amy Lindgren, Twin Cities, 8 Nov. 2025
  • Our recipe hails from Mary Ada Marshall, a resident of Smith Island, who was gracious enough to share her recipe.
    Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • After spraying just one time, the standout aspect of this product was without a doubt its distinct, refreshing smell.
    Caché McClay, USA Today, 7 Nov. 2025
  • With its welcoming small-town charm, strong sense of community, and sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada, the destination is wine country with a refreshing twist.
    Essence, Essence, 7 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Hi Boy blood orange cardamom social tonic and topped with a burning cinnamon stick.
    Timothy DePeugh, Charlotte Observer, 7 Nov. 2025
  • What the Research Suggests Pinning down concrete research insights on oxymel’s health benefits is tricky—studies have tested many versions of the tonic, making results difficult to compare.
    Julia Ries Wexler, Health, 7 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Head to Amazon now to shop even more petite-friendly comfy pants, and keep scrolling to check out the rest of my favorite picks.
    Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Looking for more cold-weather-friendly sets?
    Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 10 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Repair bare spots in the lawn to make your yard less hospitable for ground-nesting bees.
    Arricca Elin SanSone, Southern Living, 5 Nov. 2025
  • The public radio system was not especially hospitable to experimental work.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 4 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • The driver of the truck, a 40-year-old man, was not hurt and will be subject to drug and alcohol testing, which police say is standard procedure.
    Sam Gillette, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026
  • Such advances are particularly valuable in drug discovery, where precise molecular design is essential, as well as in the development of advanced materials and agrochemicals.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 8 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Naltrexone is available with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider, such as a primary care doctor, addiction medicine specialist or psychiatrist.
    Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 7 Jan. 2026
  • She's been vocal about the unique needs of helping the BIPOC population, which often lacked access to or trust in traditional medicine.
    Laurie Perez, CBS News, 6 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Cordial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cordial. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on cordial

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