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
  • Besides its prominent cloud belts, Jupiter's greatest telescopic treasure are its four Galilean moons that run a merry race with each other around the planet, changing their respective positions from hour to hour and night to night.
    Joe Rao, Space.com, 7 Jan. 2026
  • The residents were excited to see both, but the real dog hopped down and went on its merry way, while Jennie stuck around to be snuggled.
    Rena Goldman, EverydayHealth.com, 7 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Ezra Shaw / Getty Images The San Francisco 49ers held a Christmas Eve practice Wednesday without their jolliest player.
    Matt Barrows, New York Times, 25 Dec. 2025
  • Wolff checks his list twice, and then heads off on his jolly mission, delivering gifts, goodness, and a reminder that the need is growing.
    Carolyn Gusoff, CBS News, 25 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • Reblooming amaryllis each year saves money and brings back its festive charm every season.
    Cori Sears, The Spruce, 11 Jan. 2026
  • The annual Three Kings parade blessed Little Havana yet again this year with its festive attire.
    Alie Skowronski, Miami Herald, 11 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Sweater nails feel cozy and cheerful in the winter, especially in a shocking shade of scarlet.
    Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Citrus Wreaths Create cheerful wreaths that lean on in-season oranges and lemons for pops of color.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 8 Jan. 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 13 Jan. 2026.

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