Definition of jocosenext
as in merry
indicative of or marked by high spirits or good humor the comedian's jocose introductions kept the awards ceremony from becoming a stodgy affair

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word jocose distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of jocose are facetious, humorous, jocular, and witty. While all these words mean "provoking or intended to provoke laughter," jocose is somewhat less derogatory than facetious in suggesting habitual waggishness or playfulness.

jocose proposals

When could facetious be used to replace jocose?

The words facetious and jocose are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, facetious stresses a desire to produce laughter and may be derogatory in implying dubious or ill-timed attempts at wit or humor.

facetious comments

When is humorous a more appropriate choice than jocose?

The meanings of humorous and jocose largely overlap; however, humorous applies broadly to anything that evokes usually genial laughter and may contrast with witty in suggesting whimsicality or eccentricity.

humorous anecdotes

When can jocular be used instead of jocose?

Although the words jocular and jocose have much in common, jocular implies a usually habitual fondness for jesting and joking.

a jocular fellow

When would witty be a good substitute for jocose?

The words witty and jocose can be used in similar contexts, but witty suggests cleverness and quickness of mind.

a witty remark

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for jocose
Adjective
  • But Margaret and Alice’s quick-witted machinations provide the basis for a merry outing at the theater.
    Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 23 July 2026
  • Four hundred years later, a merry band of scientists and entrepreneurs of mind-altering intoxicants are plunging even deeper into the diabolical by mechanizing DMT’s delivery via IV syringe pumps.
    Charles Moss, SPIN, 16 July 2026
Adjective
  • This is not the first time that either star of Naughty has gotten audiences into a jolly mood.
    Ryan Gajewski, HollywoodReporter, 28 July 2026
  • The problem was that plenty of officials from both the government and national association wanted in on the glory, piggy-backing on the team for a jolly trip to the World Cup.
    Nick Miller, New York Times, 17 June 2026
Adjective
  • Yet behind the festive atmosphere lies a tradition rooted in the worship of deities and rituals of protection.
    ABC News, ABC News, 19 July 2026
  • Welcome guests into your home with this festive wreath from National Tree Company.
    Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 16 July 2026
Adjective
  • Their cheerful golden blooms attract native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators throughout the summer, and their seed heads become an important food source for goldfinches and other songbirds in the fall and winter.
    Alexandra Kelly, Martha Stewart, 21 July 2026
  • On April 24, a 54-year-old male had a cardiac emergency on the attraction, a gentle boat ride that floats by scenes featuring cheerful puppets.
    Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 July 2026
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.

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Cite this Entry

“Jocose.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/jocose. Accessed 2 Aug. 2026.

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