revelry
/ˈrɛv.əl.ri/
noun
Origin
Old French
reveler — to rebel, to make merry
Overview
Meaning Now
- Lively and noisy festivities, especially when these involve drinking a large amount of alcohol.
- Boisterous or unrestrained merrymaking.
Language path
Latin → Old French → Middle English → English
Earliest form
revelerie
Earliest period
14th century
Journey
The word traces its lineage to the Latin 'rebellare' (to rebel). In the late Middle Ages, the term 'revel' evolved to describe people acting in a way that defied social norms, specifically through loud and riotous partying. By the 16th century, the sense of rebellion had largely faded, leaving only the association with high-spirited, often alcohol-fueled celebration.
Evolution
- Latin
rebellare
“to rebel”
Original sense was to renew war or revolt.
- Old French
reveler
“to rebel or to enjoy oneself boisterously”
The meaning shift occurred as 'rebel' came to imply unruly public conduct.
- Middle English
revelerie
“festivity or riotous merrymaking”
Used to describe chaotic entertainment.
- Modern English
revelry
“festivity”
Refinement of the noun form.
Connections
Word parts
revel
root
to engage in lively festivities
-ry
suffix
indicates a condition, quality, or practice
Related across languages
French
révéler
to reveal (note: this is a distinct semantic branch)
Related words
Explore next
Related to revelry
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.