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Definition of jovial

jovial

/ˈdʒoʊ.vi.əl/
jo · vi · al

Adverb:jovially
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jovial Lexical Profile

jovial Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Cheerful, friendly, and good-humored in manner or disposition.

Example

"The host greeted his dinner guests with a warm smile and a jovial laugh."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for jovial

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century from Middle French or Italian, from Late Latin 'Jovialis' (pertaining to Jupiter). In medieval astrology, the planet Jupiter (Jove) was considered the source of joy and happiness, so those born under its influence were believed to have a cheerful and friendly temperament.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Jovial. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/jovial
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