jollity

noun

Etymology: From Middle English jolyfte, from Old French joliveté (“gaiety, cheerfulness; amorous passion; life of pleasure”), from jolif. Equivalent to jolly + -ty.

1. The state of being jolly; jolliness, cheerfulness.

   “But I pitty the flatteries, and ſelfe-applauſes of a careleſſe and impenitent heart: This jollity hath in it much danger, and vvithout ſome change, death.”

   “The Jolly Sandboys was a small road-side inn of pretty ancient date, with a sign, representing three Sandboys increasing their jollity with as many jugs of ale and bags of gold.”

2. Revelry or festivity; a merry or festive gathering.

   “Across the US, candidates traditionally attend rallies, barbecues and similar jollities in their states and districts.”

3. Things, remarks, or characteristics which are enjoyable.

   “Add to this picture a jolly, crackling, rollicking fire, going rejoicingly up a great wide chimney,—the outer door and every window being set wide open, and the calico window-curtain flopping and snapping in a good stiff breeze of damp raw air,—and you have an idea of the jollities of a Kentucky tavern.”