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festive
/ˈfɛstɪv/
celebratory and joyful
The streets were decorated with colorful lights for the festive season.
The streets were decorated with colorful lights for the holiday season.
formalinformal
relating to or characteristic of a festival or celebration
The festive atmosphere made everyone feel cheerful.
The celebratory atmosphere made everyone feel cheerful.
She wore a festive dress to the party.
She wore a celebratory dress to the party.
Often used to describe decorations, clothing, or activities associated with holidays or special occasions.
Collocations
festive seasonthe period of holidays and celebrations, especially around Christmasfestive spiritthe cheerful and joyful mood associated with celebrationsfestive decorationsdecorations used to celebrate a holiday or special occasion
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Tip
'Festive' is often used to describe the atmosphere, decorations, or activities associated with holidays and celebrations. It can also describe clothing or behavior that is appropriate for such occasions.
Gold Rule
Correct Usage
Use 'festive' to describe things that are related to or characteristic of a festival or celebration. Avoid using it to describe people unless referring to their behavior or attire.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'festif,' from Old French 'festif,' from Latin 'festivus,' meaning 'of a feast or festival.'
Usage Notes
The word 'festive' is often used to describe the atmosphere, decorations, or activities associated with holidays and celebrations. It can also describe clothing or behavior that is appropriate for such occasions.
Word Breakdown
fest
feast or celebration
root-ive
relating to or characterized by
suffixEnglish Dictionary