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

Wu presents that as both a side effect of the current landscape and a virtue in terms of staying agile as models improve. —ArsTechnica, 15 May 2026

The most agile organizations have used their superior supply chain visibility and relationships to secure in-demand supplies, manage risk, protect profitability and nimbly respond to disruptions. —Alex Saric, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026

Being able to respond to micro-trends, let alone create them, via an agile content supply chain is a huge advantage. —Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 15 May 2026

Psychological flexibility is about being fluid and agile, versatile and adept. —Joan M. Cook, Time, 12 May 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