festive

fes-tive · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Relating to or appropriate for a festival or celebration; cheerful and joyous.

  2. 2.

    Characterized by or providing happiness and enjoyment.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    festive season — the period around Christmas and New Year
  • •
    festive spirit — a mood of celebration and joy
  • •
    festive occasion — an event worthy of celebration
  • •
    festive decorations — ornaments used for celebrations

Related words

Antonyms: gloomy, mournful, somber
See also: celebration, festival, merry
Synonyms: celebratory, jolly, joyful, merry

Etymology

From Latin festivus ("festive, joyous"), from festum ("feast, holiday"). Related to feast and festival. Entered English in the 17th century.