rhizoverbBeta
DictionarygenialFriendly and cheerful
adjective

genial

JEE-nee-ul/ˈdʒiːniəl/

Warmly friendly and cheerful.

The host welcomes a visitor inside with a genial smile.

A cheerful host warmly welcomes a visitor through an open doorway, with a relaxed smile, friendly eye contact, and an open-palmed invitation inside.
Etymology
genialLatinpleasant, festive

Latin genialis meant “pleasant, festive” and originally referred to marriage rites. The festive quality became a description of someone's cheerful, friendly manner.

In context

Vivid Audio Library152:39
Miss Jones, the hostile mistress, was genial and warm-hearted, and kept well in touch with her girls.
A Patriotic School Girl by Angela Brazil | Full Classic British School Story Audiobook

More examples

  • Our genial neighbor always stops to chat.
  • Her genial manner puts nervous patients at ease.
  • Even during the long delay, the driver remains genial.

Forms

genial

genially adverb — In a warmly friendly and cheerful way.

geniality noun — A warmly friendly and cheerful manner.

Similar words

affable
Emphasizes being approachable and easy to talk to.
amiable
Emphasizes a pleasant, good-natured disposition rather than visible cheerfulness.
cordial
Emphasizes warm politeness and can suggest a more formal welcome.