Carnival: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to a large public event that includes entertainment, games, and possibly a parades, usually held outdoors, often with a festive atmosphere.

• The town held a carnival with rides and game booths
• We enjoyed the carnival atmosphere with all the colorful costumes and music

Appropriate for events, often cultural or religious, featuring performances, food, and various activities, sometimes lasting several days.

• The music festival attracted thousands of visitors
• The film festival will showcase international movies

Best suited for any special event or occasion that is observed with festive activities, food, and gatherings, often associated with personal or public achievements.

• We had a grand celebration for her birthday
• The New Year's celebration in the city was spectacular

Used when describing a public procession, often with a ceremonial or celebratory purpose, where people march along a route with decorations, floats, and music.

• The Independence Day parade was wonderful with all the floats and bands
• The children enjoyed watching the Christmas parade

Used to describe a large public event that often includes parades, costumes, music, and dancing, typically held to celebrate a special occasion. It can also refer to traveling entertainment with rides and games.

• The city celebrates its annual carnival with vibrant parades and street parties.
• We took the kids to the carnival to enjoy the rides and games.

Refers to a large, permanent amusement park with various areas or rides based on specific themes, often including shows and other attractions.

• We spent the entire day at the theme park, enjoying the roller coasters and live performances.

Typically used in British English to describe a traveling amusement event with rides, games, and other attractions.

• The local funfair comes to town every summer, bringing rides and sweet treats.

An informal and sometimes negative term used to describe a person who works at a carnival, often seen as part of the 'carnival culture'.

• He worked as a carny, traveling from town to town with the fair.