Definition of festivenext
as in merry
indicative of or marked by high spirits or good humor we arrived at the Christmas party to find everyone already in a festive mood, perhaps owing in part to the punch

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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 festive The film is billed as a blend of family comedy and fantasy adventure built around festive theatrical viewing. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 19 Aug. 2026 Some come for the high-octane DJs at Shellona or the all-day revelry of Nikki Beach; others swear by the legendary glamour of Le Club 55 or the festive energy of Casa Amor. Lanie Goodman, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Aug. 2026 To make the moment more festive, the hospital room was decorated with balloons and flowers, along with a cake. Erin Clack, PEOPLE, 17 Aug. 2026 The retailer just released some indoor decorations, and this year’s offerings are sweeter than scary, with adorable girl ghosts, fun prints, and festive garland. Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for festive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for festive
Adjective
  • Rounding up his merry men of Sherwood Forest, and his Maid Marian (Olivia de Havilland), Robin goes about resisting John’s rule and securing Richard’s throne.
    Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Fortune’s intrepid tech editor, Alexei Oreskovic, and his merry band of reporters will carry on in my absence.
    Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 7 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Both his suggestion and the jolly appreciation seem out of tune with the situation ‘far from home’, which may be a military manoeuvre involving mock battles and bayonet practice, or a preparation for actual combat.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 11 Aug. 2026
  • This plush captures its jolly mood with a big smile and a grinning sun across its belly (complete with sunglasses).
    Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 3 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The town is also locally known for its cheerful embrace of all things Christmas as well.
    Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Rooms feel traditional, yet never fusty, with cheerful blue and green quilts and rich wood furnishings.
    Lila Harron Battis, Travel + Leisure, 18 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Festive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/festive. Accessed 30 Aug. 2026.

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