merriment
UK: ˈmerɪmənt | US: ˈmerɪmənt
n. lively celebration or enjoyment; gaiety and fun
The word "merriment" derives from Middle English "mirien" (to rejoice), which evolved from Old English "myrge" (pleasing, delightful). The root "merri" (modern "merry") originally described anything pleasant or joyful, while the suffix "-ment" (from Latin "-mentum") was added to form a noun denoting the state or act of being merry. Over time, "merriment" came to specifically signify lively enjoyment or festive cheer, reflecting its association with social celebrations.
The room was filled with laughter and merriment during the party.
Children's merriment echoed through the park on the sunny afternoon.
The festival brought a sense of merriment to the entire village.
Despite the rain, their merriment remained undampened.
Her eyes sparkled with merriment as she told the joke.