First Known Use: 1566
Dictionary
1genial
adjective ge·nial \ˈjēn-yəl, ˈjē-nē-əl\
Definition of GENIAL
1
obsolete : of or relating to marriage or generation <the genial bed — John Milton>
3
a : favorable to growth or comfort : mild <genial sunshine> b : marked by or diffusing sympathy or friendliness <your genial host>
4
: displaying or marked by genius
— ge·nial·i·ty \ˌjē-nē-ˈa-lə-tē, jēn-ˈyal-\ noun
— ge·nial·ly \ˈjēn-yə-lē\ adverb
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Origin of GENIAL
Latin genialis, from genius
Synonym Discussion of GENIAL
gracious, cordial, affable, genial, sociable mean markedly pleasant and easy in social intercourse. gracious implies courtesy and kindly consideration <the gracious award winner thanked her colleagues>. cordial stresses warmth and heartiness <our host was cordial as he greeted us>. affable implies easy approachability and readiness to respond pleasantly to conversation or requests or proposals <though wealthy, she was affable to all>. genial stresses cheerfulness and even joviality <a genial companion with a ready quip>. sociable suggests a genuine liking for the companionship of others <sociable people who enjoy entertaining>.
2genial
adjective ge·ni·al \ji-ˈnī(-ə)l\
Definition of GENIAL
: of or relating to the chin
Origin of GENIAL
Greek geneion chin, from genys jaw — more at chin
First Known Use: 1831
Other Anatomy Terms
GENIAL Defined for Kids
genial
adjective ge·nial \ˈjēn-yəl\
Definition of GENIAL for Kids
: cheerful and pleasant <a genial host>
— ge·nial·ly \ˈjēn-yə-lē\ adverb
Medical Dictionary
genial
adjective ge·ni·al \ji-ˈnī(-ə)l\
Medical Definition of GENIAL
: of or relating to the chin
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