merrymaking; partying
Refers to enjoying oneself at a lively gathering, often with food and drink. Somewhat literary or formal in tone.
The night of merrymaking grew late.
彼らは宴楽にふけっていた。
They were indulging in partying.
Standard kanji spelling for merrymaking or partying.
Alternate kanji form; 燕 means 'swallow' (bird) and is less common for this meaning.
Compound of 宴 (feast, banquet) and 楽 (pleasure, enjoyment). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the combination naturally conveys the idea of enjoying a feast.