Definitions

festive

[fes-tiv] / ˈfɛs tɪv /

ADJECTIVE

decorated, celebratory

Synonyms

STRONGEST

cheery chipper convivial gala happy hearty jovial joyful joyous jubilant lighthearted merry peppy upbeat

WEAK

blithe bouncy carnival carnivalesque chirpy festal gay gleeful go-go grooving holiday jocund jolly juiced up jumping mirthful perky rocking snappy swinging zippy

Antonyms

STRONGEST

apathetic depressed lethargic miserable sad serious sorrowful troubled unhappy upset

WEAK

gloomy somber undecorated

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If you’re leaving family and friends behind, don’t expect a festive sendoff.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 30, 2026

"With the festive season now behind most of us and New Year's resolutions in full swing, this research can help inform people's plans for healthy aging in 2026," she said.

From Science Daily • Jun. 28, 2026

A roast chicken dinner becomes more festive when it’s accompanied by a skillet of cornbread and a basket of flaky biscuits.

From Salon • Jun. 22, 2026

Remarkably, during the hourlong class, only one person fell into the pool, sparking festive cheers among participants.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 15, 2026

They had, in impudence, chosen this night, the night of our festive lampoon, for their attack, knowing our officers engaged in the drama; there could be little question of that.

From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves" by M.T. Anderson

Vocabulary lists containing festive

Joy To The Word: Christmas Terms

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Emotions on Display

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The Help

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