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.

The tail-wagging detective with a "joyful and goofy" personality retired with an extensive list of accolades -- including an Animal of the Year award and Puppy Tales Photos Australian Dog of the Year award.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

Are they not joyful or grounding enough to be worthy of enjoyment?

From Salon • May 17, 2026

It’s her very first league game, and the moment is surreal, joyful.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 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

The fences still buzz with news and gossip, and the mountains and hollows echo with the joyful clamor of childhood adventures.

From "October Sky" by Homer Hickam

joyful

Example Sentences

Related Words