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
  • Margaret, like Daniel, ends up on the lam, and Spielberg whisks the audience along for these two merry chases.
    David Sims, The Atlantic, 9 June 2026
  • Reddit threads and gossip pages are ablaze with speculation about who will get the invite, but Swift seems to be opting for a more-the-merrier approach.
    Anna Grace Lee, Vogue, 4 June 2026
Adjective
  • Jason Maddy disappears into multiple roles including the sleazy diner owner, the jolly Napa depot manager who pre-reads everyone’s mail and the wise doctor who treats Tony after a car accident.
    Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 June 2026
  • He-Man was now a jolly, quip-ready hero, whose best friends were scaredy-cat Cringer (a green-and-yellow tiger who transformed into Battle Cat), and an annoying, hovering magician called Orko.
    Richard Edwards, Space.com, 1 June 2026
Adjective
  • All of the ducks don festive attire during holidays and big New England sports events.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 June 2026
  • Americana Napkins No Fourth of July party is complete without festive napkins.
    Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 12 June 2026
Adjective
  • This tropical mini dress has the cheerful, vacation-ready energy of pricier resort brands without the sticker shock.
    Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 5 June 2026
  • Tracks from bands like The Vaselines and Beat Happening add to the cheerful freneticism.
    Colin Wrenn, Denver Post, 3 June 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 Jun. 2026.

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