What does reveler mean?
A reveler is a person who joins in lively celebration or merrymaking, especially at a party, festival, or similar festive occasion. The word often suggests enthusiasm and abandon, as when a crowd is described as happy, noisy, or animated revelers. It can also carry a slightly critical tone when the behavior seems excessive or disorderly. In older usage, the noun could refer more broadly to someone who indulges in enjoyment or revelry. The standard US spelling is “reveler,” while British English traditionally uses “reveller.” The word is most useful when describing the people behind a celebration rather than the celebration itself: the revelers arrive, the revelry begins, and the atmosphere grows lively.
nounA person who revels; someone who celebrates enthusiastically, especially at a party or festive gathering.
- A person who takes part in lively celebration, entertainment, or festivity.
- A person who indulges in unrestrained enjoyment or merrymaking.
"The revelers danced late into the night."
"The revelers filled the hall with music and laughter."
"By midnight, even the most reserved guests had become enthusiastic revelers."
The standard US plural is “revelers”; British English traditionally uses “revellers.”
"The revelers left the venue after midnight."
A reveler brings the celebration; the revelry is the party that follows.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reveler come from?
The word comes through Middle English from Old French reveler, meaning to celebrate or make merry. Old French reveler was derived from Latin revelare, “to unveil” or “make known,” formed from re- and velum, meaning “veil.” The same Latin root underlies English words such as reveal, revelation, and revelry, which preserve the associations with bringing something into view and festive celebration.
How reveler is actually used
Usually positive or playful in modern use, though it can sometimes imply excessive indulgence or noisy behavior. “Reveller” is the traditional British spelling; “reveler” is the usual US spelling.
Easily confused with reveler
“Reveler” is the standard US spelling, while “reveller” is the traditional British spelling of the same noun.
A reveler is someone who celebrates or enjoys themselves, whereas a rival is a competitor or opponent.