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Definitions

joy

[joi] / dʒɔɪ /
NOUN
great happiness, pleasure
Synonyms
STRONGEST
amusement bliss charm cheer comfort delight elation glee humor pride satisfaction wonder
STRONG
alleviation animation delectation diversion ecstasy exultation exulting felicity festivity frolic fruition gaiety gem gladness gratification hilarity indulgence jewel jubilance liveliness luxury merriment mirth prize rapture ravishment refreshment rejoicing revelry solace sport transport treasure treat
WEAK
good humor pride and joy regalement
Antonyms
STRONGEST
depression melancholy misery sadness seriousness sorrow unhappiness
STRONG
discouragement dislike mourning vocation work
WEAK
woe

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.

The news set the internet ablaze with joy and hope.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

Bridges said at the time that he would “continue to lift my former partner up in prayer, wishing them joy and fulfillment in the chapters ahead.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

For others, stop-start has deadened the joy of driving.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Every facet of life - joy, despair and everything in between – co-existed under the strobe lights.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

I would squeal for joy, but I don’t want to summon the rest of the family.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.