ENGLISH
REFERENCE

festive

adj.
US //ˈfɛstɪv// UK //fˈɛstɪv// fes·tive
  1. 1 atmosphere or decoration (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    looking or feeling happy and bright because of a holiday or celebration.

    relating to or suitable for a feast or festival; characterized by bright decorations and a joyful atmosphere.

    Example

    The city looked very festive with all the colorful lights and decorations.

    Example

    The town square was transformed into a festive marketplace, complete with traditional music and stalls selling seasonal treats.

  2. 2 mood or attitude (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    feeling happy and ready to celebrate a special event.

    describing a person's joyful or celebratory disposition.

    Example

    Everyone was in a festive mood after the team won the championship.

    Example

    Despite the cold weather, the crowd remained in a festive spirit as they waited for the parade to begin.

Origin

From French festif, from Latin festivus (“pertaining to a feast, gay, lively, joyous”). Equivalent to feast + -ive.

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