The word "cheerful" is spelled like this: /ˈtʃɪə(r)fʊl/. The first sound is a voiceless postalveolar affricate /tʃ/. This is followed by a short vowel sound /ɪə/. The next sound is a tapped /r/, pronounced by quickly tapping the tip of the tongue against the alveolar ridge. This is followed by a labialised voiceless velar plosive /fʊ/. Finally, the word ends with an unrounded lax vowel /l/. When pronounced correctly, this word should sound like "CHEER-full".
Cheerful is an adjective used to describe a person or their disposition when they are noticeably happy, in good spirits, and exuding a positive and optimistic attitude. A cheerful individual often radiates an enthusiastic aura and is frequently seen smiling or laughing. This term implies a sense of joy and contentment that is contagious and can lift the spirits of others around them.
Someone who is cheerful typically displays a genuine and lighthearted demeanor, showing enthusiasm and eagerness in their actions and interactions with others. They tend to find joy in the simplest of things and have an ability to maintain positivity even in challenging circumstances. This attribute is often accompanied by an optimistic outlook on life, as they tend to focus on the lighter side of things rather than dwelling on negative aspects.
A cheerful person is often eager to spread happiness and uplift the moods of others. Their positive energy can be uplifting and inspiring, creating a pleasant and harmonious atmosphere. They have a knack for brightening the days of those around them and can make others feel welcome and comfortable in their presence.
In summary, cheerful refers to a state of being where one is noticeably happy, positive, and exudes an optimistic attitude. It is characterized by a genuine and lighthearted demeanor, an enthusiasm for life, and a desire to spread joy to others.
Lively; in good spirits; full of life.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "cheerful" has its origins in the Old English language. It comes from the combination of two words: "cēorl" and "ful".
The first part, "cēorl", originally meant a "freeman" or a "man of the lowest class". Over time, it evolved to refer to any common person or individual.
The second part, "ful", is a suffix that means "full of" or "characterized by". Put together, "cheerful" originally meant being full of cheer, happiness, or good spirits.
Over the centuries, the word has retained its meaning and usage, and it is still commonly used today to describe someone who is in a positive and joyful mood.