Jestful

Inclined toward playful, good-natured joking.

Reach for it when describing a humorous manner in rare or deliberately old-fashioned prose

His jestful toast gently teased the couple and then honored their courage.

• playful

  mischievous

  gentle rule-bending adds charm

  not when Mischievous can imply trouble or disregard for the target's comfort.

• everyday

  playful

  lighthearted intent is clear without stressing jokes

  not when Playful can describe movement or experimentation with no verbal humor.

• warm

  witty

  clever language earns the praise

  not when Witty concerns verbal sharpness, while jestful may be merely merry.

• formal

  facetious

  seriousness is intentionally withheld for comic effect

  not when Facetious is often critical and can suggest poorly timed humor.

• formal

  jocular

  habitual joking gives a sociable exchange its tone

  not when Jocular can become insensitive when the occasion calls for seriousness.

• solemn
• humorless
• earnest

• jestful mood

  A jestful mood spread through the room after the first warm toast.

• jestful reply

  Her jestful reply corrected the error without embarrassing the speaker.

• jestful companion

  A jestful companion made the delayed journey feel shorter.

Jestful is rare; playful or jocular will be clearer for most readers.