Jestful
What it means
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.
Words to choose between 5
| playful | |
|---|---|
| everyday | |
| warm | |
| formal | |
| literary |
|
-
playful
mischievous
Fits when gentle rule-bending adds charm
Careful Mischievous can imply trouble or disregard for the target's comfort.
-
everyday
Fits when lighthearted intent is clear without stressing jokes
Careful Playful can describe movement or experimentation with no verbal humor.
-
warm
Fits when clever language earns the praise
Careful Witty concerns verbal sharpness, while jestful may be merely merry.
-
formal
facetious
Fits when seriousness is intentionally withheld for comic effect
Careful Facetious is often critical and can suggest poorly timed humor.
-
formal
Fits when habitual joking gives a sociable exchange its tone
Careful Jocular can become insensitive when the occasion calls for seriousness.
Opposites 3
- solemn
- humorless
- earnest
Common phrases 3
-
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.
Usage notes
Keep in mind
Jestful is rare; playful or jocular will be clearer for most readers.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Updated