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Definitions

joyful

[joi-fuhl] / ˈdʒɔɪ fəl /
ADJECTIVE
happy
Synonyms
STRONGEST
cheerful cheery ecstatic elated enjoyable festive heartening joyous jubilant lighthearted merry pleasurable rapturous upbeat
WEAK
blithesome delighted doing handsprings effervescent enraptured expansive flipping flying gay glad gladsome gratified high jocund jolly jovial overjoyed pleased popping satisfied sunny transported
Antonyms
STRONGEST
depressed disagreeable down gloomy grave sad serious sorrowful troubled unhappy unpleasant upset
WEAK
miserable

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.

While many of the tracks here reveal the musician’s characteristic intensity, it is a happier and more joyful sound.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

Capital Pride London's website promises "a powerful demonstration and a joyful celebration for all" and welcomes donations from members of the public.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

“We look forward to another safe and joyful Jazz Fest.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

But, in the midst of feeling joyful connection, I also felt sadness nestled next to that joy.

From Salon • Apr. 19, 2026

I took these moments for granted, but from where I was sitting, I got to observe a stable, functional, and joyful relationship.

From "Americanized" by Sara Saedi