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
  • Fortune’s intrepid tech editor, Alexei Oreskovic, and his merry band of reporters will carry on in my absence.
    Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Last year, which marked the first holiday season for Epic Universe, merry decor was concentrated in its Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic and Celestial Park sections.
    Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Both his suggestion and the jolly appreciation seem out of tune with the situation ‘far from home’, which may be a military manoeuvre involving mock battles and bayonet practice, or a preparation for actual combat.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 11 Aug. 2026
  • This plush captures its jolly mood with a big smile and a grinning sun across its belly (complete with sunglasses).
    Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 3 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Some come for the high-octane DJs at Shellona or the all-day revelry of Nikki Beach; others swear by the legendary glamour of Le Club 55 or the festive energy of Casa Amor.
    Lanie Goodman, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Aug. 2026
  • To make the moment more festive, the hospital room was decorated with balloons and flowers, along with a cake.
    Erin Clack, PEOPLE, 17 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Perhaps a more cheerful outlet for such fears is to become more frequent farmers market shoppers before the season ends.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 14 Aug. 2026
  • But for Miller, creating a cheerful classroom isn’t about filling every available space.
    Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 13 Aug. 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 21 Aug. 2026.

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