Happiness is such a wonderful feeling, why should we only use one word to describe it? Open up that vocabulary and let the good times roll.
1. “Chirky”
From the late 19th century, meaning “cheerful.”
2. “In high snuff”
An expression for “good mood,” used from the late 17th century until the 1930s.
3. “Over the moon”
Before humans literally went beyond the moon, this popular phrase from the 1930s means “overjoyed.”
4. “Gassed”
Started out meaning “intoxicated,” but by the 1950s it just meant happy.
5. “Tickled”
As in “tickled pink.”
6. “Merry-pin”
Also started as a reference to tipsiness, this referred to a general good ol’ time in the 19th century.
7. “Ricochet”
In the 19th century, this bouncy term also meant “splendid.”
8. “All callao”
This 19th century sailor’s slang either referred to the Peruvian port of Callo or acted as a play on the word alcohol. Or both.
9. "Gaudeamus"
From the Latin for “let us rejoice,” this oldie refers to a merry jamboree.
10. "Kvelling"
From the Yiddish for “so happy and proud my heart is overflowing.”
11. “Chuffed”
This current slang in the UK certainly needs to make a trip across the pond.
12. “Delira and Excira”
A term the Irish use to mean “delirious and excited.” We need to borrow this one too.
13. “Gladsome”
This classic from the 14th century doesn’t get used enough anymore.
14. “To Lick the Eye”
This confusing 19th century gem was used to describe someone who was extremely pleased.
15. “Cock-a-hoop”
From the phrase “to set the cock on the hoop,” meaning open the tap and let the good times flow.
