Joy

Definition

Joy is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a feeling of great happiness or delight. As a verb, it means to experience or express happiness or delight.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dʒɔɪ/
• Respelling: JOY

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dʒɔɪ/
• Respelling: JOY

Etymology

The word "joy" originates from the Old French "joie," which comes from the Latin "gaudia," the plural of "gaudium," meaning "delight" or "pleasure." It entered Middle English in the 13th century and has retained its meaning of happiness and delight.

Derivatives

• Joyful (adjective)
• Joyless (adjective)
• Joyous (adjective)
• Enjoy (verb)
• Rejoice (verb)

Synonyms

• Happiness
• Delight
• Bliss

Antonyms

• Sorrow
• Sadness
• Misery

Usage

The term "joy" is commonly used in both emotional and metaphorical contexts. For example, "The birth of their child brought them immense joy," or "The flowers were a joy to behold."

Related Terms

• Happiness: A state of well-being and contentment.
• Delight: A feeling of extreme pleasure or satisfaction.
• Bliss: Perfect happiness or joy.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A feeling of great happiness or delight: Refers to an intense state of emotional satisfaction.
  • Example: "She felt pure joy as she watched her child perform."
• A source of happiness or pleasure: Describes something that causes or brings happiness.
  • Example: "The painting was a joy to look at."

Verb

• To experience or express happiness: Refers to the action of feeling or showing joy.
  • Example: "They joyed in the success of their hard work."