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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 Selfridges London is also hosting the Downtown Café with a backdrop of illuminated skyscrapers, festive scenes in every window and a subway carriage to dine in. — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2026 The festive pregame party gave way to a first half filled with long stretches of fouls and missed shots, not leaving much reason for the cheers to continue. — Cbs New York Team, CBS News, 21 Oct. 2026 Select sailings run throughout the festive season, including a seven-night Bridgetown-to-Saint John’s voyage offering an intimate New Year’s celebration at a private resort in Nevis. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 21 Oct. 2026 Kirkton House Holiday Luxe Vintage Candle Candles are an easy way to make your home feel extra cozy during the holidays, and the Kirkton House Holiday Luxe Vintage Candle adds a festive touch to any room. — Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 21 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for festive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for festive
Adjective
  • In the days leading up to the Christmas party Lexi and Ridge’s attempt to pair up their parents brings them closer together and their merry matchmaking ends in surprising results.
    — Rachel LaBonte, Entertainment Weekly, 29 Oct. 2026
  • Rather than getting stuck or trying to figure out a way to navigate around an obstacle, the robot can simply leap over it and continue on its merry way.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 16 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The track opens with a sprinkle of piano before morphing into a jolly celebration that’s really going to hit this holiday season.
    — Angie Martoccio, Rolling Stone, 25 Sep. 2026
  • 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
Adjective
  • The vibe is of a cheerful — very upscale — Parisian market that’s centered around a section of fruits and vegetables displayed like in a museum.
    — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 24 Oct. 2026
  • Jeon is marvelous in the role, allowing flashes of envy, resentment, and longing to surface beneath Mi-ok’s cheerful, accommodating manner without diminishing her warmth or loyalty.
    — Lisa Wong Macabasco, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Festive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/festive. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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