Get more practice with the workbook

Build vocabulary faster with structured lessons and activities.

The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

4.6

✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.

✔ All-in-one dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 147 categorized lessons, 428 practical activities, 632 pages.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT

Buy Now

The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Adjectives

4.8

✔ Add 2,000 must-know adjectives to your vocabulary.

✔ All-in-one dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 99 categorized lessons, 232 practical activities, 354 pages.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT

Buy Now

The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Verbs

4.8

Buy Now

✔ Add 1,500 must-know verbs to your vocabulary.

✔ All-in-one dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 70 categorized lessons, 175 practical activities, 266 pages.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT

joie-de-vivre

Joie-de-vivre (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/ʒwadəˈvi vrə/

What does joie-de-vivre mean?

A French expression that encapsulates a zest for life, an exuberant enjoyment of living, and a contagious enthusiasm for the pleasures and beauties of existence.
"Her joie de vivre was contagious, spreading laughter and cheer wherever she went."

Detailed Meaning of Joie-de-vivre

The term literally translates to "joy of living" in English. Joie de vivre embodies a positive and lighthearted attitude towards life, characterized by an appreciation of simple pleasures, a sense of spontaneity, and an embrace of the present moment. It is a celebration of the human spirit and a recognition of the inherent joy that can be found in everyday experiences. People who possess joie de vivre often radiate an infectious energy, finding delight in small things, savoring delicious meals, engaging in meaningful connections with others, and finding beauty in the world around them. This concept emphasizes the importance of living life to the fullest, relishing in the moments that bring happiness, and embracing a vibrant and optimistic outlook. Joie de vivre encourages individuals to embrace their passions, seek adventure, and approach life with a sense of wonder and gratitude.

Example Sentences for Joie-de-vivre

1. The painting captured the essence of joie de vivre with its vibrant colors and lively brushstrokes.
2. The old friends reminisced about their youthful days, filled with joie de vivre and carefree adventures.
3. The festival was a true celebration of joie de vivre, with music, dancing, and laughter filling the air.
4. Despite the challenges she faced, her joie de vivre remained intact, serving as a beacon of light in difficult times.
5. The picturesque seaside town exuded a sense of joie de vivre, with locals and tourists enjoying the sun and sea.
6. The protagonist's joie de vivre was evident in her love for travel, exploration, and trying new experiences.

Origin and Etymology of Joie-de-vivre

The term 'joie de vivre' has its origins in French and is a beautiful expression that vividly captures the essence of a zest for life, an exuberant enjoyment of living, and a contagious enthusiasm for the pleasures and beauties of existence. The word 'joie' translates to 'joy' in English and is derived from the Old French 'joie,' which, in turn, traces its roots back to the Latin word 'gaudia,' meaning 'rejoicing' or 'joy.' The addition of 'de' signifies 'of' or 'from,' and 'vivre' means 'to live.' So, when we deconstruct this phrase, we find that 'joie de vivre' essentially means the 'joy of living' or the profound appreciation and celebration of life itself. It's a term that encapsulates the very spirit of vivacity and enthusiasm that brings a sense of vibrancy to existence.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun joie-de-vivre:

apathy

indifference

lethargy

zest

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Joie-de-vivre

1. The elderly couple's joie de vivre was reflected in their daily walks, holding hands and sharing stories along the way.
2. The lively street parade captured the spirit of joie de vivre, with performers and spectators alike reveling in the festivities.
3. The joyful laughter of children playing in the park filled the atmosphere with a sense of pure joie de vivre.
4. The artist's vibrant paintings depicted scenes of joie de vivre, depicting people dancing, embracing, and enjoying life's pleasures.
5. The book club provided a space for intellectual discussions and shared joie de vivre, as members bonded over their love for literature.
6. Her joie-de-vivre is infectious; she radiates positivity.
7. Traveling allows me to experience the world's joie-de-vivre.
8. The city's vibrant culture reflects a genuine joie-de-vivre.
9. Embracing joie-de-vivre, she dances through life's challenges.
10. His genuine joie-de-vivre inspires those around him.
11. The festival embodies the community's joie-de-vivre.
12. Art and music often express the essence of joie-de-vivre.
13. The beach vacation rejuvenated our joie-de-vivre.
14. Nature's beauty fills me with a sense of joie-de-vivre.
15. She finds joie-de-vivre in simple moments of laughter.
16. The town's atmosphere is brimming with joie-de-vivre.
17. Embracing joie-de-vivre, he lives life to the fullest.
18. The park's tranquility promotes a sense of joie-de-vivre.
19. We celebrate life's joys with a spirit of joie-de-vivre.
20. Embracing joie-de-vivre, she greets each day with a smile.
21. Their shared love for adventure is a source of joie-de-vivre.
22. Cultivating a sense of joie-de-vivre enhances well-being.
23. Music and dance are expressions of our joie-de-vivre.
24. Her joie-de-vivre shines through in her artwork.
25. In retirement, they embrace a newfound joie-de-vivre.