WordGarden.iojocularly
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /dʒˈɒkjʊləli/
US
Meanings
Adverb
in a joking or playful way
Beyond the definition
If someone tells a story jocularly, they tell it in a light, playful way, as if they want to make you smile. Think of an uncle who loves to tease and tell silly jokes; he might describe his fishing trip jocularly, making the fish bigger every time and adding funny details. The word suggests a friendly, good-humored tone, even when the subject itself is not especially funny. You would not usually deliver bad news jocularly, but you might jocularly remind a friend that they still owe you five dollars.
It usually describes the way something is said rather than what is being said. Think of someone giving a little wink while making a comment: that is the kind of feeling this word often carries.
To do something jocularly means to do it in a playful, joking, or cheerful manner. It is more than simply feeling happy; it suggests that a person is choosing a light and amusing tone. The tone is the key part. Someone speaking jocularly is not always telling actual jokes, but their way of speaking carries friendly humor and a sense of fun.
You might describe a seasoned storyteller as recounting tales jocularly, stretching the details and using playful exaggeration to entertain the audience. Or a friend might jocularly tease you about your terrible singing voice, not out of malice, but in a friendly, good-natured way.
It is important to note that jocularly does not mean rude or cruel. It often appears in social, relaxed, or conversational settings where a playful tone feels natural. For example, a politician might jocularly admit to a small mistake during a speech to seem more human and approachable.
However, context matters. Using a jocular tone in the wrong situation, such as when delivering bad news or speaking about a tragedy, would sound insensitive. The word usually suggests a deliberate choice to keep things cheerful, amusing, and friendly when the moment allows it. So if someone acts jocularly, expect a smile, a teasing remark, and an easy, cheerful manner.
Examples
- 1
Playful warning
"Don't eat all the cake," Sam said jocularly.
- 2
Workplace joke
At meetings, she would jocularly call the printer "the office monster."
- 3
Money joke
He waved the bill and asked jocularly if anyone had brought a suitcase full of cash.
- 4
Self-deprecating humor
The professor spoke jocularly about his terrible handwriting, but the students could tell he was embarrassed.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- facetiously
- wittily
- lightheartedly
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- said jocularly
- remarked jocularly
- added jocularly
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- jocularly