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

Examples Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for jocose
Adjective
  • Whether you’re drawn to a whimsical Fair Isle pattern or want something a bit more merry and bright, there’s a Walmart ugly Christmas sweater out there for you.
    Shea Simmons, People.com, 12 Dec. 2024
  • Whether for a grand occasion like a wedding or a simpler celebration like a kid’s birthday party, there’s no denying the joy that comes with a thoughtful piece of paper that’s been stuffed into an envelope, stamped, and sent on its merry, snail-mail way.
    Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 7 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Bundle up and get ready to enjoy a jolly season this December, this month is packed with holiday celebrations.
    Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press, 6 Dec. 2024
  • He’s even currently being beaten by another one of his own jolly tracks.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • At one seasonal gathering at a leaky Belgian castle several years ago, about 60 showed up for a festive lunch and most were there until past midnight.
    Louis J. Esterhazy, WWD, 8 Dec. 2024
  • As the festive season rolls in, feel free to be generous with your corporate giving.
    John Hall, Forbes, 8 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • In the book, the cynical green character successfully steals Christmas from his cheerful neighbors in Whoville — with help from his pet dog Max — and learns the true meaning of Christmas along the way.
    Athena Sobhan, People.com, 11 Dec. 2024
  • The days leading up to Christmas are some of the most special—when our homes are filled with twinkling lights, cheerful decorations, and the cozy, unmistakable feeling of holiday magic.
    Symiah Dorsey, Southern Living, 10 Dec. 2024
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 Dec. 2024.

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