Festive Meaning
/ˈfɛstɪv/Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
adjHaving the atmosphere, decoration, or attitude of a festival, holiday, or celebration.
adjIn the mood to celebrate.
Sentence Examples
The festive mood was slightly spoiled by terrorist bombs.
Fresh snow brought about a festive atmosphere.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The hall looked ____ with colorful streamers and twinkling lights hanging overhead.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The streets were decorated with colorful lights, giving the city a very ____ atmosphere during the holidays.
Word Origin & History
From French festif, from Latin festivus (“pertaining to a feast, gay, lively, joyous”). Equivalent to feast + -ive.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"On festive occasions away from home we softened under the influence of Christmas trees, bran pies, and conjurors."
— 1938, Siegfried Sassoon, The Old Century and seven more years, London: Faber, page 35 (1968 edition):
Explore More C1 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The hall looked ____ with colorful streamers and twinkling lights hanging overhead.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The streets were decorated with colorful lights, giving the city a very ____ atmosphere during the holidays.