Joyous Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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joyous

[ˈdʒɔɩəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling of happiness

Full of happiness and joy; characterized by or causing delight and happiness. It is a feeling of great pleasure and happiness.

Synonyms

cheerful, elated, exuberant, happy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
joyous

This word is often used for formal occasions or events that bring great happiness and celebration.

  • The wedding was a joyous occasion for everyone
  • The joyous music filled the air
happy

This is a general term used to describe a state of well-being and contentment. It fits in a wide range of contexts.

  • I am happy with my new job
  • They looked happy together
cheerful

This word is used to describe someone or something that is noticeably happy and optimistic. It can be used in everyday conversations.

  • She has a cheerful personality that makes everyone feel comfortable
  • The room was bright and cheerful
elated

This word is suitable for moments when someone feels extremely happy, often because of a significant achievement or great news.

  • He was elated when he heard that he got the job
  • She felt elated after winning the competition
exuberant

This word describes a person or behavior that is full of energy, excitement, and enthusiasm. It may sometimes be perceived as overly festive.

  • The children were exuberant at the party
  • Her exuberant attitude was contagious

Examples of usage

  • She gave a joyous laugh.
  • The news brought joyous tears to her eyes.
  • The children's joyous laughter filled the room.
Context #2 | Adjective

celebratory

Expressing joy or happiness, especially through celebration or festivities. It is a feeling or state of great happiness or delight.

Synonyms

celebratory, festive, jubilant, merry.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
joyous

Used to describe a feeling of happiness and delight in a broad range of contexts, whether casual or formal.

  • The wedding was a joyous occasion.
  • She felt joyous after hearing the good news.
festive

Best used for situations involving holidays, festivals, or any event with a lot of decorations, music, and general revelry.

  • The streets were adorned with festive lights.
  • Everyone was in a festive mood for the New Year's Eve party.
celebratory

Typically used in contexts where there is an organized event or ceremony aimed at marking an achievement, anniversary, or special occasion.

  • There was a celebratory dinner after the awards ceremony.
  • The mood at the party was very celebratory.
jubilant

Appropriate for expressing great happiness or triumph, typically used in more extraordinary or major moments of success or victory.

  • The team was jubilant after winning the championship.
  • He was in a jubilant mood after getting the promotion.
merry

Commonly used during holiday seasons, especially Christmas, or in contexts where you want to convey a sense of cheerful enjoyment.

  • Wishing you a Merry Christmas!
  • The group was in a merry spirit all night.

Examples of usage

  • The joyous occasion was marked with music and dancing.
  • The joyous crowd cheered and applauded.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culture

  • Many cultures celebrate joyous occasions with festivals or holidays that bring communities together.
  • Joyous music and dance are integral in numerous cultures, often marking celebrations like weddings or births.
  • In literature, joyous moments are often contrasted with sorrow to highlight the full human experience.

Psychology

  • Experiencing joyous moments can lead to improved mental health and overall well-being.
  • Psychological studies suggest that sharing joyous experiences with others enhances feelings of happiness.
  • Being in a joyous state can also strengthen social bonds and foster positive relationships.

Pop Culture

  • Songs like 'Happy' by Pharrell Williams capture the essence of joyous feelings shared by many.
  • Joyous themes often appear in movies, particularly in family films where characters overcome challenges to find happiness.
  • Holiday music frequently includes joyous melodies that encourage feelings of cheer and celebration.

Origin of 'joyous'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the old French 'joyeus,' which means 'full of joy or happy.'
  • Tracing back further, it has roots in the Latin word 'gaudere,' which means 'to rejoice.'
  • It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe moments of great happiness.

The word 'joyous' originated from the Middle English word 'joyous', which came from the Old French word 'joios'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe feelings of happiness and delight.


See also: enjoy, joy, joyful, joyfully, joyfulness, joylessly, overjoyed, rejoice, unjoyfully.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,013, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.