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

Relevance

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 The red carpet was decked out with Christmas trees and artificial snow while 1950s festive classics blasted out in the backdrop, and if by magic, temperatures dropped, ending an unseasonably balmy autumn. — Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 9 Nov. 2026 These staples create a festive outfit that feels both effortless and classy. — Vivien Lee, PEOPLE, 9 Nov. 2026 For the festive season, a dusting of chrome or a magnetic cat-eye finish can bring a little extra drama. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 7 Nov. 2026 The journey heads north to the Village of Ashley’s Country Christmas, where passengers have two hours to explore the festive village, take photos with the train, and meet Santa. — Sarah Miller, Midwest Living, 7 Nov. 2026 See All Example Sentences for festive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for festive
Adjective
  • As the holiday season quickly approaches, Central Florida has no shortage of ways to feel merry and bright.
    — Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 Nov. 2026
  • Festive treats, cheery decor, and a few very-merry gift ideas—all at a bargain.
    — Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • Much to Leah’s delight, she is paired with Kris (Randy Apostle), a jolly resident who bears an uncanny resemblance to Santa Claus.
    — Rachel LaBonte, Entertainment Weekly, 29 Oct. 2026
  • 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
Adjective
  • The set includes two chairs and a round table that fold flat for convenient storage when not in use, and comes in chic shades like blue, green, red, and yellow for a cheerful pop of color.
    — Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Nov. 2026
  • Neighbors and friends have remembered the family as involved, helpful and cheerful members of the community.
    — Rebecca Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 6 Nov. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Festive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/festive. Accessed 15 Nov. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster