spirited

adjective

spir·​it·​ed ˈspir-ə-təd 

: full of energy, animation, or courage

a spirited discussion

spiritedly adverb

spiritedness noun

Did you know?

You may see spirited used to describe a conversation, a debate, a horse, or a campaign. And it often shows up in such words as high-spirited ("bold and energetic"), mean-spirited ("spiteful"), and public-spirited ("generous to a community"), all of which reflect the original meaning of spirit, a notion much like "soul" or "personality".

Synonyms of spirited

• fiery
• passionate
• spunky
• brisk
• fervent
• high-spirited

Examples of spirited in a Sentence

The team put up a spirited defense.

She's a very spirited young lady.

Recent Examples on the Web

Photograph by Rachel Neville / Courtesy Parsons Dance Parsons Dance has long been known for its high-energy, high-spirited style. —Sheldon Pearce, New Yorker, 24 Apr. 2026

Despite the clients’ cache of masterworks, the property is anything but a museum—its spirited decorative moments serving as a gentle reminder that the house is meant first and foremost to be lived in. —David Foxley, Architectural Digest, 24 Apr. 2026

This is a high-spirited opening for curious neighbors and travelers alike, with a mischievous sense of fun that firmly roots guests in their destination. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026

Speakeasies round out a spirited evening—most notably Hell or High Water, a cozy hideout beneath Whiskey Row where craft cocktails and an extensive bourbon list set the tone for late-night revelry. —Hillary Richard, Robb Report, 23 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing spirited

• high-spirited
• low-spirited
• mean-spirited
• poor-spirited
• public-spirited

Rhymes for spirited

• dispirited

Kids Definition

spirited

adjective

spir·​it·​ed ˈspir-ət-əd 

: full of courage or energy

a spirited discussion

spiritedly adverb