jocular

[ jok-yuh-ler ]

adjective

1. given to, characterized by, intended for, or suited to joking or jesting; waggish; facetious:

   jocular remarks about opera stars.

jocular

/ ˌdʒɒkjʊˈlærɪtɪ; ˈdʒɒkjʊlə /

adjective

1. characterized by joking and good humour
2. meant lightly or humorously; facetious

Derived Forms

• jocularity, noun
• ˈjocularly, adverb

Other Words From

• jocu·lar·ly adverb
• over·jocu·lar adjective
• over·jocu·lar·ly adverb
• semi·jocu·lar adjective
• semi·jocu·lar·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of jocular¹

First recorded in 1620–30; from Latin joculāris, equivalent to jocul(us) “little joke” ( joc(us) joke + -ulus -ule ) + -āris -ar ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of jocular¹

C17: from Latin joculāris, from joculus little joke

Synonym Study

See jovial.

Example Sentences

Casey was an influential clergyman, outspoken and jocular, as comfortable holding forth on political issues as he was on the pastoral needs of parishes under his purview.

From Los Angeles Times

He jocularly pardoned a couple of Thanksgiving turkeys on the White House lawn.

From Los Angeles Times

After years of rising economic and security tensions between Canberra and Beijing, Mr. Albanese’s visit was striking for its more relaxed, jocular character.

From Washington Times

David Oyelowo is astonishing as King, capturing the unmistakable cadences but also the man — uncertain, jocular, determined.

From New York Times

Once a week, Falcone dresses as a clown — a jocular means of approaching addicts.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• cheerful
• humorous
• joking
• jolly
• jovial
• lighthearted
• playful
• teasing