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

• 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

Giants head coach Brian Daboll was visibly thrilled after the win, meeting with Dart for a spirited interaction at midfield. —Matt Audilet, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Sep. 2025

For a more spirited approach, look to Nicole Phelps, global director of Vogue Runway and Vogue Business, for inspiration. —Minty Mellon, Vogue, 27 Sep. 2025

With its ample 10,000 square feet, 15-foot ceilings and seating for 190 guests, Qua will be a space for spirited gatherings, with interiors by design agency HBA. —Brock Keeling, Oc Register, 26 Sep. 2025

Know Where To Go Popular spots include Myers Quad and North Campus Quad, with each offering a very spirited atmosphere within walking distance of the stadium. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 26 Sep. 2025

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