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.
Here are our picks for the most joyful surprises and most egregious snubs. EW.com, 15 July 2025 This book captures her vibrant, joyful voice in conversation with Toshio Meronek. Emma Specter, Vogue, 15 July 2025 And on every wall, there are paintings of all shapes and sizes in bright, joyful colors. Michael James Rocha, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 July 2025 One of the most joyful, exuberant, kind-hearted and talented souls no longer walks with us. Megan Cartwright, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 July 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 22 Jul. 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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