Joy or merriment, particularly in a lively or animated manner.
From Old French 'allegresse' derived from 'alegre' (cheerful, lively), which comes from Latin 'alacer' (brisk, lively). The word traveled through Romance languages and entered English in the medieval period.
This word is delightfully archaic—it captures a specific flavor of joyful energy that our modern word 'happiness' doesn't quite nail. Medieval and Renaissance writers loved it for describing festive occasions and spirited celebrations!
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