Word of the Day: REVELRY

Pronunciation: UK /ˈrevəlri/ US /ˈrevəlri/

Meaning

'Revelry' means lively and noisy celebration, especially when people are enjoying themselves at a party, festival or other occasion. It often suggests a sense of excitement, laughter, music and uninhibited fun.

Examples for daily usage

  • The streets were filled with revelry as people celebrated the festival.
  • Music and revelry continued well into the night.
  • The wedding reception was full of laughter and revelry.

Origin and history

'Revelry' comes from the Middle English word revelrie, meaning an act of revelry or an occasion of celebration. It is derived from revel, which came into English through Old French reveler, meaning to rebel or make merry.

The word revel eventually developed the sense of celebrating in a lively or noisy way. By the 14th century, revelry was being used for an occasion involving merrymaking and entertainment.

Also Read: Word of the Day, August 20: ‘Guzzle’

Cultural significance and modern usage

Revelry is strongly associated with public celebrations, festivals, weddings, carnivals and holidays. Unlike the quieter happiness suggested by words such as contentment, revelry usually involves people coming together and making a lively occasion of it.

The word can describe everything from music-filled streets during a festival to a late-night party. It can also carry a slightly negative suggestion when celebrations become excessive or disorderly.

In literature, revelry is often used to create a vivid picture of a crowd celebrating. Writers may use the word to contrast a scene of noise and excitement with moments of silence, loneliness or seriousness.

Interesting facts

Revelry is related to the verb revel, meaning to take great pleasure in something or to celebrate noisily.

The word is generally associated with lively, energetic celebrations rather than quiet enjoyment.

Revelry can describe both private parties and large public celebrations.

The word has been used in English literature for centuries. It can have either a positive or slightly disapproving tone, depending on the context.

Examples from literature

  • “The revelry of the night was over.” — Charles Dickens, The Pickwick Papers
  • “The sound of revelry by night” — Lord Byron, Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage
  • “The revelry was at its height.” — William Makepeace Thackeray, Vanity Fair

Synonyms

  • Merriment
  • Festivity
  • Jollity
  • Celebration
  • Carousing
  • Gaiety
  • Jubilation
  • Liveliness

Antonyms

  • Gloom
  • Sadness
  • Sorrow
  • Melancholy
  • Solemnity
  • Silence
  • Despondency

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