joyous

Joyous is an adjective used to describe a state or quality of being full of joy or capable of inducing joy in others. It can refer to people, events, or expressions that convey happiness, merriment, or celebratory spirit. The term can describe internal feelings as well as outward displays, such as a joyous mood or a joyous crowd.

Etymology and form: Joyous derives from Middle English, from Old French joieus, meaning full of joy, which itself comes from Latin gaudiosus meaning joyful, from gaudium joy. The word has been part of English since the medieval period, and related forms include joyousness as the corresponding noun.

Usage: In contemporary English, joyous tends to appear in more formal, literary, or ceremonial contexts. It is common in phrases such as a joyous occasion, a joyous celebration, or joyous laughter. In everyday speech, the more common adjective joyful may be used instead, though joyous remains understood and is often chosen for a slightly elevated or poetic tone. It can also describe things that are intrinsically uplifting or uplifting to a group, such as a joyous season or a joyous ceremony.

See also: joyful, happiness, merriment, jubilation, elation. The term is sometimes encountered in religious or ceremonial language, with set phrases that emphasize communal or shared happiness.