jolly

[ˈdʒɒli]

jolly Definition

• 1. happy and cheerful in manner or nature
• 2. used 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

Synonyms for jolly

• merry
• cheerful
• jovial
• lively
• joyful

Antonyms for jolly

• miserable
• gloomy
• sad

Idioms Using jolly

• be jolly

  to be happy and cheerful

  Example

  Despite the rain, he was still jolly and full of energy.

• jolly hockey sticks

  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.

• jolly roger

  a black flag with a white skull and crossbones, flown by pirates as a symbol of piracy

  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.

• jolly good

  an expression of approval or agreement, often used sarcastically

  Example

  Oh, jolly good, another meeting. Just what I needed.

• jolly well

  used to emphasize a statement or command

  Example

  You jolly well better be here on time tomorrow.

Origins of jolly

from Old French 'jolif', meaning 'merry'

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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.