The Merriam-Webster Word of the Day for September 17, 2025, is "jovial." This adjective describes someone or something that is cheerful and jolly in nature. An example sentence shows the word used to describe a joyful audience. The word's usage extends to moods and attitudes that are filled with happiness. "Jovial" originates from Roman astrology. People were believed to share traits with the god associated with their birth planet. Jupiter, the largest planet, was named after the Roman god Jove, who was a bringer of light. Jove represents joy and power, and "jovial" reflects this positive association. The text provides an example of how "jovial" is used in context. The text also explains that "jovial" contrasts with "saturnine," which denotes gloominess. Saturn, the father of Jupiter, is associated with a somber disposition.