jocular

Definitions

jocul (little joke) + -ar = inclined to joke. A formal, slightly literary word: a jocular tone or remark is one meant playfully, not seriously — so it shouldn't be taken at face value.

Common Collocations

• 1.jocular manner诙谐的举止
• 2.jocular remark戏谑的言论
• 3.jocular tone幽默的语气

Example Sentences

• 1.

  He made a jocular comment to ease the tension in the room.

• 2.

  Her jocular manner put the nervous guests at ease.

Easily Confused

jocular vs jovial — both mean cheerful, but jocular is about joking (making playful remarks), while jovial is about being warmly merry and good-humored in general (a jovial host). And despite the resemblance, jovial comes from Jupiter/Jove, not from the joke root. Cracking jokes → jocular; warm and jolly → jovial.