Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Characterized by jokes and good humor; humorous in a playful, merry, or jesting manner. Describes a person, their manner, or their remarks as being fond of or characterized by joking; not serious.

Usage

• The word "jocose" is a formal or literary adjective used to describe someone who is playful and humorous, or a situation, remark, or tone that is characterized by jesting. It often implies a lighthearted, cheerful intent to amuse.
• It is typically used attributively (before a noun) or predicatively (after a linking verb like 'was' or 'seemed').

Examples

• Attributive use (before a noun):
  • He was known for his jocose remarks at staff meetings.
  • The speaker maintained a jocose tone throughout his address.
• Predicative use (after a linking verb):
  • Her manner was jocose and put everyone at ease.
  • The conversation became more jocose as the evening went on.

Advanced Usage

• "jocose spirit": A cheerful, joking attitude.
  • He faced the difficult task with a surprisingly jocose spirit.
• "jocose intent": The purpose of being humorous or playful.
  • Her criticism, though sharp, was delivered with jocose intent.

Variants and Related Words

• Jocosely (adverb): In a joking or humorous manner.
  • He remarked jocosely that the weather was perfect for ducks.
• Jocoseness (noun): The quality of being jocose.
  • The jocoseness of his character made him a favorite guest.
• Jocular (adjective): Very similar in meaning to "jocose," often used interchangeably, though sometimes "jocular" can imply more habitual jesting.

Synonyms

• Humorous: Causing lighthearted laughter and amusement.
• Jesting: Said or done in jest; joking.
• Playful: Fond of games and amusement; lighthearted.
• Witty: Showing quick and inventive verbal humor.

Antonyms

• Serious: Solemn or thoughtful in character or manner.
• Solemn: Formal and dignified; not cheerful or smiling.
• Grave: Serious or solemn in manner or appearance.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• In a jocose vein: In a joking manner or style.
  • He began his speech in a jocose vein, telling a funny anecdote.
• Jocose mood: A state of mind inclined to joke.
  • We were all in a jocose mood after the good news.

Adjective

1. characterized by jokes and good humor