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
  • That would be the Vanity Fair Oscar Party, where A-listers gather to drink, dance, and be merry until the early-morning hours.
    Savannah Walsh, Vanity Fair, 9 Mar. 2026
  • Eminently rewatchable, Gavin and Stacey is one of the merriest of BBC sitcoms.
    Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • There’s a great Wings photo that fans cherish — a day in the Scottish highlands, the family farm, Paul and the band playing a jolly game of footie while his sheepdog muse Martha joins in, chasing the ball.
    Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 24 Feb. 2026
  • His jolly presence, which is 21-feet wide, is stopping drivers in front of Katie Aalerud's house.
    Mike Sullivan, CBS News, 19 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Krispy Kreme’s O’riginal Glazed Doughnut — a vibrant green version of its signature pastry — debuted in 2016 and has returned every year (usually only for a few days) to mark the festive holiday.
    Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 13 Mar. 2026
  • Local lowriders will participate in several community contests, andparticipants are encouraged to decorate their cars and show up in festive attire.
    Bella Monaco, Dallas Morning News, 13 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • They are principled, cheerful, resilient leaders.
    Peter Jensen, Baltimore Sun, 14 Mar. 2026
  • Don’t forget to add these $13 blackout curtains to bedrooms and guest rooms, and hang this cheerful spring wreath on the front door.
    Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Mar. 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 15 Mar. 2026.

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