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Definition of merriness

merriness

/ˈmɛr.i.nəs/
mer · ri · ness
Adverb:merrily
•
Adjective:merry
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merriness Lexical Profile

merriness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The state or quality of being cheerful, lively, and full of good humor.

Example

"The infectious merriness of the children brightened the entire household during the winter holidays."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for merriness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for merriness

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'merriment' is much more common and typically refers to external festivities, laughter, and lively celebration, 'merriness' more specifically denotes the internal quality or state of being cheerful.

• Rhymes for merriness

• Nearby Words

merrily
merrimack
merriment
merriness
merry
merrybells
merrymaker

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'merry' (from Old English 'myrige', meaning pleasing or delightful) combined with the native noun-forming suffix '-ness'.

Cite this Entry

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