English Reference
adjective

cheerful

adj.
US /ˈtʃɪɹfəɫ/ UK /tʃˈiəfəl/ cheer·ful

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    feeling or showing that you are happy and positive.

    exhibiting or feeling happiness, optimism, and good spirits.

    Simple

    He is always cheerful in the morning, even before he has his coffee.

    In context

    Despite the challenging circumstances, the staff remained remarkably cheerful and professional throughout the entire event.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    bright and pleasant to look at, making you feel happy.

    having a bright, pleasant, or uplifting appearance that improves the mood of an observer.

    Simple

    The kitchen was painted a cheerful yellow that made the room feel warm.

    In context

    The designer selected a cheerful palette of primary colours to make the children's ward feel less intimidating for young patients.


From Middle English chereful, cherful, equivalent to cheer + -ful.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Middle English chereful
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated