Saturnalia
/ˌsætərˈneɪliə/noun
An event or time of wild, excessive fun or pleasure.
The yearly company picnic was often seen as a true saturnalia, with bosses and employees mingling freely, music playing loudly, and food and drink in abundance.
Often appears as...
- enjoy a saturnalia
- a real saturnalia
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Wild Celebration
Saturnalia refers to wild, boisterous festivities, not calm or formal gatherings.
The Mardi Gras in New Orleans is comparable to a modern-day saturnalia.
Pro Tip 2/3Positive Freedom
Despite its wildness, 'saturnalia' often carries a positive connotation of freedom and enjoyment.
The streets were alive with a sense of saturnalia after the team's victory.
Pro Tip 3/3Informal Use
While 'saturnalia' can describe any wild party, it might be too formal or literary for everyday speech.
Their reunion turned from a barbecue to a full-scale saturnalia.
Compare with
carousecelebratefestivitymerrymakingorgyrevelry
Never forget "Saturnalia"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension