agile

adjective

ag·​ile ˈa-jəl  -ˌjī(-ə)l 

1

: marked by ready ability to move with quick easy grace

an agile dancer

2

: having a quick resourceful and adaptable character

an agile mind

agilely

ˈa-jə(l)-lē 

-ˌjī(-ə)(l)-lē

adverb

Synonyms of agile

• graceful

Examples of agile in a Sentence

Leopards are very fast and agile.

the expressive movements of agile dancers

Recent Examples on the Web

Those with distinct points of view and an agile instinct for the moment cut through the quiet while the city continues to draw global activations. — Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2026

This process of neurogenesis (building new neurons) and constructing new nerve connections (also known as synapses) strengthens your memory and keeps your brain agile and ready to learn. — Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 14 Oct. 2026

Regional industry networks would combine technology and talent to create more agile workforces, new capabilities, lines of business, and growing market shares. — Byron Auguste, Fortune, 13 Oct. 2026

Richard’s agile voice leads the way, shifting as often as the music. — Stephen Kearse, Pitchfork, 9 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French & Latin; Middle French, borrowed from Latin agilis, from agere "to drive, be in motion, do, perform" + -ilis -ile entry 1 — more at agent

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for agile

• fragile

Kids Definition

agile

adjective

ag·​ile ˈaj-əl  -ˌīl 

1

: able to move quickly and easily : nimble

an agile gymnast

2

: mentally quick

an agile thinker

agilely

-ə(l)-lē 

-ˌī(l)-lē

adverb

agility

ə-ˈjil-ət-ē

noun

Etymology

Latin agilis "nimble, agile," from agere "to drive, act, do" — related to act, agent