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

• aperiodic
• casual
• catchy
• choppy
• discontinuous
• episodic
• episodical
• erratic
• intermittent
• irregular
• occasional
• spasmodic
• spastic
• sporadic
• spotty
• unsteady

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

If there is no serious reckoning that attempts to rebuild presidential accountability for foreign policy, then Americans should expect not only more military parades but also more military misadventures, unpredictable trade relations, and fitful foreign-policy making in a very uncertain future. —Elizabeth N. Saunders, Foreign Affairs, 16 June 2025

But, a few minutes into the journey, the train came to a fitful stop. —Yiyun Li, New Yorker, 15 June 2025

So here’s the short take: Washington is fine, a bit unsure of his characterization occasionally and fitful in his mood shifts. —Greg Evans, Deadline, 23 Mar. 2025

Now, 36 years later, this fitful odyssey of justice approaches its latest and most significant destination. —Henry Leutwyler Robert Petkoff Emma Kehlbeck Quinton Kamara, New York Times, 20 May 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