rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryjoyousGreat happiness
adjective

joyous

JOY-uhs/ˈdʒɔɪəs/

Feeling or bringing great happiness.

Dancing hand in hand, the pair share a joyous moment.

Two young adults share an exuberantly happy moment, laughing openly and dancing hand in hand.
Etymology
joyOld Frenchpleasure, delight
+ousOld Frenchfull of

The base covered both the feeling of delight and something that gives delight. That range connects joyous with both being happy and bringing happiness to others.

In context

The Catholic Couple14:35
they're joyous. They're filled full of joy because they have that peace.
The Hardest Catholic Prayer? The Litany of Humility

More examples

  • The news of her recovery makes this a joyous day.
  • A joyous cheer rises from the crowd as the team wins.
  • Our reunion is even more joyous than I imagined.

Forms

joyous · more joyous · most joyous

joy noun — a feeling of great happiness

joyously adverb — in a way that expresses great happiness

Similar words

merry
Suggests lighthearted good humor, especially at social gatherings.
jubilant
Often describes joy expressed after a victory or success.
exuberant
Emphasizes overflowing energy and enthusiasm rather than happiness alone.