joyful

adjective

joy·​ful ˈjȯi-fəl How to pronounce joyful (audio)
: experiencing, causing, or showing joy : happy
a joyful crowd
joyful faces
a joyful occasion
joyfully adverb
joyfulness noun

Examples of joyful in a Sentence

We were joyful at the news. the news of the child's safe return made us all joyful
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The couple — already the parents of two boys, Dutton, 4 in June, and Baker, 2½ — is now joyful about becoming a family of five in November. Nancy Kruh, People.com, 30 May 2025 Few things can bring such awe to adults who have already lived a full and eventful life, as very little can catch them off guard with a joyful revelation. Cathrine Todd, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025 Flipping the question makes the process lighter, easier, even joyful. Marni Jameson, Oc Register, 28 May 2025 Have faith that the next six months will align you with fun-loving, joyful companions. Liz Simmons, StyleCaster, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for joyful

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of joyful was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Joyful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/joyful. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

joyful

adjective
joy·​ful ˈjȯi-fəl How to pronounce joyful (audio)
: feeling, causing, or showing joy
a joyful family reunion
joyfully adverb
joyfulness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on joyful

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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