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.
Keep reading for the recipe, plus a few more joyful things to slot into your month. Olivia Quintana, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 Apr. 2025 The ideals and events of the decade informed the music, as its moods grew both more joyful and darker. Mikal Gilmore, Rolling Stone, 30 Mar. 2025 Victory is a joyful, adorable, and sweet little boy. Mare Staff, Boston Herald, 30 Mar. 2025 Since its launch, this perfume has remained a beloved signature for those who like their perfume to feel joyful and bright. Claire Sullivan, Footwear News, 28 Mar. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Joyful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/joyful. Accessed 7 Apr. 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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