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Synonyms

geniality

American  
[jee-nee-al-i-tee] / ˌdʒi niˈæl ɪ ti /
Rarely genialness

noun

  1. the fact or quality of being warmly and pleasantly cheerful; cordiality.

    Here you will find goodwill and loyalty from a friendly staff, who greet you with genuine northern warmth and geniality.

  2. the fact or quality of being favorable for life, growth, or comfort.

    This part of California combines that geniality of soil and climate essential for the production of a light and highly flavored wine.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of geniality

First recorded in 1600–10, for an earlier sense; from Late Latin genialitas, from Latin geniāli(s) genial 1 ( def. ) + -tās -ty 2 ( def. )

Explanation

Geniality is a fancy word for friendliness. We show geniality when we are pleasant, kind, and nice to be around. People usually like other people who show geniality. Synonymous with amiability and affability, this word has to do with being friendly and approachable. Mean, scary people show no geniality at all. Smiling, giving compliments, laughing, listening to others, and helping out are all signs of geniality. If you think about the people you like, part of what you like is probably their geniality — they're congenial.

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing geniality

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

His real-life geniality provides a stark contrast to some of his most famous roles as monstrous men committing equally hideous deeds.

From Salon Jul. 17, 2026

Even if he stands nearly a foot taller than his real-life counterpart did, he has the right combination of imposing physicality and tender geniality.

From New York Times Apr. 11, 2023

Mostly they are dignified snapshots of him shaking hands with dignitaries and voters, offering up that big, gleaming expression of geniality that was his signature, walking across a tarmac or delivering a speech.

From Washington Post Feb. 21, 2023

Indeed, Samarco’s humor and geniality are what inspired filmmaker Marcus Mizelle to turn his camera on the third-generation restaurateur.

From Los Angeles Times Mar. 1, 2022

All the assurance and geniality had gone out of his manner.

From "Murder on the Orient Express" by Agatha Christie

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