joyful

adjective

ˈjȯi-fəl How to pronounce joyful (audio)
Definition of joyfulnext
as in thankful
experiencing pleasure, satisfaction, or delight the news of the child's safe return made us all joyful

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of joyful The joyful event happened against a backdrop of rising reports of verbal and physical assaults on members of the LGBTQ+ community in the Netherlands, that has long been considered a haven of tolerance. — ABC News, 1 Aug. 2026 Following the film’s premiere, many critics praised it for both a joyful depiction of Tokyo’s ballroom dance scene and its ability to supplement its joyful romantic swings with pathos. — Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 29 July 2026 Joining him will be Matt Brannagan of the Hoffman Institute Foundation, an organization that focuses on helping adults transform their beliefs and perceptions to live a more joyful, balanced life. — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 29 July 2026 With his caring heart, inquisitive mind, and joyful spirit, Adam has so much to offer. — CBS News, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for joyful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for joyful
  1. thankful
  2. delighted
  3. happy
  4. pleased
  5. glad
  6. satisfied
  7. joyous
Adjective
  • The parents are thankful that both the mother and baby are OK.
    — Lesley Marin, CBS News, 29 July 2026
  • The thankful and polite, yet rowdy Post Malone was preceded onstage Wednesday by first opening artist Carter Faith and part-coheadliner, part-opener Jelly Roll .
    — Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 16 July 2026
Definition of thankful
Adjective
  • As much as the couples appreciate the celebrities’ gestures, the stars often seem just as delighted to be included.
    — Lydia Price, PEOPLE, 29 July 2026
  • The audience was delighted to be coaxed, delighted to hear from Goldberg herself.
    — Doreen St. Félix, New Yorker, 25 July 2026
Definition of delighted
Adjective
  • Consider swapping a meeting for an email, since smart adjustments keep your body and schedule happy and calm.
    — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2026
  • The paper’s star columnist, Mike Royko, who had made a similar move three years before, was happy to have her.
    — Rick Kogan, Chicago Tribune, 5 Aug. 2026
Definition of happy
Adjective
  • This will have pleased manager Phil Parkinson, who last season was forced to use Zak Vyner as a makeshift holding midfielder alongside George Dobson as injury and suspension bit in the spring.
    — Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Gunther was none-too-pleased with the Owens’ addition, leading to a feud with SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis, who came out of retirement last night and fought valiantly in defeat against the Ring General.
    — Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026
Definition of pleased
Adjective
  • Rebecca Ferguson is very glad that Silo fans have moved on from their initial gripes about the latest season’s offerings.
    — Mekishana Pierre, Entertainment Weekly, 28 July 2026
  • And the working artist is glad to discuss their projects with anyone entering their creative space.
    — Lou Ponsi, Oc Register, 23 July 2026
Definition of glad
Adjective
  • Ultimately, grants should serve as a temporary bridge to market independence, not a permanent substitute for a robust revenue engine driven by satisfied customers.
    — AllBusiness, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Furious demands for resignations were satisfied as Gabriele Gravina, Gianluigi Buffon and Gennaro Gattuso all fell on their swords.
    — James Horncastle, New York Times, 28 July 2026
Definition of satisfied
Adjective
  • The joyous moment of WrestleMania appeared to be a thing of the past.
    — Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 2 Aug. 2026
  • But playing big brother to his teammates, has been a joyous subplot.
    — Joaquin Ruiz, Los Angeles Times, 2 Aug. 2026
Definition of joyous

Browse Nearby Words

joyed
joyful
joyfully
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Joyful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/joyful. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of joyful for Spanish Speakers

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