joyful

adjective

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

Synonyms of joyful

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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 process of getting to know this book has been totally joyful. — Max Gao, Variety, 4 Oct. 2026 Family, friends and colleagues described Feldman as an amazing woman -- unconditionally accepting, active in her community, joyful, fun and compassionate. — Megan Fahrney, ABC News, 2 Oct. 2026 The pub crawl through town was a joyful experience full of music and Guinness. — Shelby Wax, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2026 Phil, Chris, and Drew have created a highly entertaining film that makes scientific discovery feel both joyful and accessible. — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 30 Sep. 2026 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

Joycean
joyful
joyfully
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Joyful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/joyful. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

joyful

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