Definition of jocosenext
as in merry
indicative of or marked by high spirits or good humor the comedian's jocose introductions kept the awards ceremony from becoming a stodgy affair

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word jocose distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of jocose are facetious, humorous, jocular, and witty. While all these words mean "provoking or intended to provoke laughter," jocose is somewhat less derogatory than facetious in suggesting habitual waggishness or playfulness.

jocose proposals

When could facetious be used to replace jocose?

The words facetious and jocose are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, facetious stresses a desire to produce laughter and may be derogatory in implying dubious or ill-timed attempts at wit or humor.

facetious comments

When is humorous a more appropriate choice than jocose?

The meanings of humorous and jocose largely overlap; however, humorous applies broadly to anything that evokes usually genial laughter and may contrast with witty in suggesting whimsicality or eccentricity.

humorous anecdotes

When can jocular be used instead of jocose?

Although the words jocular and jocose have much in common, jocular implies a usually habitual fondness for jesting and joking.

a jocular fellow

When would witty be a good substitute for jocose?

The words witty and jocose can be used in similar contexts, but witty suggests cleverness and quickness of mind.

a witty remark

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for jocose
Adjective
  • Knoxville and his merry band of delightfully sadistic goons are back for one possibly final rodeo.
    Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 27 Apr. 2026
  • October welcomes the annual Amelia Island Jazz Festival, and December plays host to Dickens on Centre, which gives downtown Fernandina a merry Victorian makeover just before Christmas.
    Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 26 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The neighborhood Neighboring St Moritz was adopted in the 19th century by all those jolly-hockey-stick Brits, who introduced skiing and tobogganing, but little Sils Maria has always been more cerebral.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026
  • Of course, even for me there were still some jolly moments.
    Christine Smallwood, Harpers Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • During the holiday season, the historic downtown welcomes over 2 million visitors to enjoy the festive activities, decorations and Christmas market.
    Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 Apr. 2026
  • Stock up on these for everyday dining and festive barbeques.
    Carly Totten, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • In recent years, Grohl has been in the news for less cheerful reasons.
    Stuart Berman, Pitchfork, 25 Apr. 2026
  • Just take a look at how this fence mural by Sarah Murphy adds a cheerful pop of color to this outdoor space.
    Tessa Cooper, The Spruce, 25 Apr. 2026
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Jocose.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/jocose. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

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