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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
That said, Vitello referenced the Rays’ Junior Caminero and the Orioles’ Gunnar Henderson as two players who were cordial with the Giants yet clearly wanted to win. Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 15 May 2026 The result was a much more cordial legislative session than many anticipated. Jack Harvel, Kansas City Star, 13 May 2026
Noun
And because Leonessa takes cues from Italy, expect a rotating menu of complimentary aperitivo-style snacks and a cocktail list full of spritzes, bitters, martinis, plus plenty of amari, vermouth, and cordials. Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 9 Apr. 2025 The cordial is made with fresh dill, citrus, sugar and water, and then blended and strained before it’s eventually shaken with vodka, lemon juice and rich simple syrup. Kevin Gray, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cordial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cordial
Adjective
  • All rooms, including mine on the sixth floor (639), were updated in 2017 by American designer Ed Tuttle in a warm neutral and gold palette.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 June 2026
  • The 26-inch inseam keeps things cropped and cool, which is perfect for warmer spring destinations, and its natural fibers keep you comfortable in the heat.
    Robin Raven, Travel + Leisure, 3 June 2026
Adjective
  • Branham recalled how raucous the crowd was and how gracious Busch was interacting with fans.
    Zach Powell, New York Times, 23 May 2026
  • There’s an art to being a gracious guest.
    Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 22 May 2026
Adjective
  • In the current era of Big Brother, in which one big alliance ofetn mows down the rest of the house with little-to-no resistance, revisiting a season-long duel between two distinct teams is even more refreshing.
    Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 4 June 2026
  • Moss is paired with sea salt for a subtle briny funk, while herbaceous sage, warm vetiver, and airy musk leave the scent light and refreshing.
    Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 3 June 2026
Noun
  • Quite the tonic after a flight.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 June 2026
  • Feel Free tonic contains a trace amount of 7-OH.
    Tara Molina, CBS News, 1 June 2026
Adjective
  • Museums, statues and sculptures dedicated to Andersen’s life and stories thread through cyclist- and pedestrian-friendly streets, giving the city a fairytale atmosphere that feels woven into the architecture itself.
    Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 3 June 2026
  • Salustri books a cottage at one of the last remaining mom-and-pop stays in Islamorada, White Gate Court, a pet-friendly collection of cottages with its own private beach.
    Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 3 June 2026
Adjective
  • Grist recently reported that climate change is making oceans more hospitable to Vibrio.
    Eva Flowe June 3, Charlotte Observer, 3 June 2026
  • In the South, our houses are all about the exterior charm which sets the tone for the inviting and hospitable interior beyond the front door.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 29 May 2026
Noun
  • New studies are fueling optimism about the drugs’ potential role in prevention and treatment — especially in breast, colon and lung cancer.
    Ariana Eunjung Cha, Washington Post, 3 June 2026
  • The personalized mRNA cancer therapy, called intismeran autogene, combined with the cancer immunotherapy drug KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab), is a collaboration between Merck and Moderna.
    Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 2 June 2026
Noun
  • Elio and his friend work on a service project in a rural community, while Celi learns traditional medicine.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 1 June 2026
  • Recovered patients describe experience Baraka Bulambulu, one of those who recovered, told the Associated Press on Sunday that community members feared contracting an unknown illness from them, keeping their distance while delivering food and medicine.
    Justin Kabumba, Los Angeles Times, 31 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Cordial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cordial. Accessed 5 Jun. 2026.

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