verve

noun

ˈvərv 

1

a

: the spirit and enthusiasm animating artistic composition or performance : vivacity

b

: energy, vitality

2

archaic : special ability or talent

Synonyms of verve

• vigor
• energy

Examples of verve in a Sentence

She played with skill and verve.

Recent Examples on the Web

Martin takes the lead on vocals on this revamping of a classic tune, but is eventually joined by Della Mae’s Celia Woodsmith, who brings verve to a perfect vocal contrast. —Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 30 Mar. 2026

The four-man group plays and sings with equal verve whether essaying its own engaging songs or classics by Bill Monroe, The Carter Family and The Stanley Brothers. —George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Mar. 2026

In the mouth of a master like Goncharov, crying foul at the sight—or, at any rate, the perception—of plagiarism acquires an astounding verve. —Anthony Lane, New Yorker, 22 Mar. 2026

The programming maneuvers appear to add anchors who have demonstrated verve and a lean-forward personality to hours across the schedule, placing a premium on analysis of events and not just reporting the facts tied to them. —Brian Steinberg, Variety, 18 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French, caprice, from Old French, word, gossip, from Vulgar Latin *verva, from Latin verba, plural of verbum word — more at word

First Known Use

1697, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for verve

• curve
• mirv
• nerve
• serve
• swerve
• conserve
• deserve
• manoeuvre
• observe
• preserve
• reserve
• subserve

Kids Definition

verve

noun

ˈvərv 

: lively enthusiasm