n. pl. [ L. See Saturn. ] 1. (Rom. Antiq.) The festival of Saturn, celebrated in December, originally during one day, but afterward during seven days, as a period of unrestrained license and merriment for all classes, extending even to the slaves. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Hence: A period or occasion of general license, in which the passions or vices have riotous indulgence. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. 1. Of or pertaining to the Saturnalia. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Of unrestrained and intemperate jollity; riotously merry; dissolute. “Saturnalian amusement.” Burke. [ 1913 Webster ]