jolly Definition
- 1happy and cheerful in manner or nature
- 2used to express friendly good humour
Using jolly: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "jolly" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He was a jolly man who loved to tell jokes.
Example
We had a jolly time at the party last night.
Example
She gave me a jolly smile and a wave as she walked by.
jolly Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using jolly
Example
Despite the rain, he was still jolly and full of energy.
a phrase used to describe a stereotypical upper-class English girl who is enthusiastic and energetic
Example
She's always so cheerful and enthusiastic, a real jolly hockey sticks type.
Example
The ship was flying the jolly roger, so we knew we were in trouble.
Phrases with jolly
jolly up
to make something more enjoyable or lively
Example
Let's jolly up this party with some music and dancing.
Example
Oh, jolly good, another meeting. Just what I needed.
Example
You jolly well better be here on time tomorrow.
Origins of jolly
from Old French 'jolif', meaning 'merry'
Summary: jolly in Brief
The term 'jolly' [ˈdʒɒli] refers to a happy and cheerful demeanor, often expressed through friendly humor. It can be used to describe people, events, and situations, as in 'We had a jolly time at the party last night.' 'Jolly' extends into phrases like 'jolly up,' and idioms like 'jolly hockey sticks,' denoting enthusiasm, and 'jolly roger,' referring to the pirate flag.