fitful

adjective

fit·​ful ˈfit-fəl 

1

obsolete : characterized by fits or paroxysms

2

: having an erratic or intermittent character : irregular

fitfully

ˈfit-fə-lē 

adverb

fitfulness noun

Synonyms

• sporadic
• occasional
• intermittent
• sudden
• erratic

Choose the Right Synonym for fitful

fitful, spasmodic, convulsive mean lacking steadiness or regularity in movement.

fitful implies intermittence, a succession of starts and stops or risings and fallings.

fitful sleep

spasmodic adds to fitful the implication of rapid or violent activity alternating with inactivity.

spasmodic growth

convulsive suggests the breaking of regularity or quiet by uncontrolled movement.

convulsive shocks

Examples of fitful in a Sentence

He had a few fitful hours of sleep.

Several fitful attempts at negotiation have failed.

Recent Examples on the Web

This is important in the here and now in consideration of what’s available to mitigate the health and irritability effects of fitful sleep born of sleep apnea. —John Tamny, Forbes.com, 31 July 2025

And no detail has been overlooked: Don’t worry about fitful sleep at 12,000 feet above sea level in a suite at this hotel, since oxygen’s piped into the 55 rooms to improve the air quality. —Laura Dannen Redman, Robb Report, 28 July 2025

And a new Chargers home in Mission Valley, late in a fitful process that had spanned many years, seemed a longshot. —Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 July 2025

The next day is more of the same, and a keen reminder that this is Indiana men’s basketball in its scope, and a keen reminder that this is Indiana men’s basketball in the fitful stages of transition, all at once. —Brian Hamilton, New York Times, 11 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

fit entry 4 + -ful entry 1

First Known Use

1592, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

fitful

adjective

fit·​ful ˈfit-fəl 

: not regular : restless

fitful sleep

fitfully

-fə-lē 

adverb

fitfulness noun