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

Oklahoma ran out the clock from there, setting off a spirited celebration by its visiting fans. —Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 16 Nov. 2025

Since the early 1900s, Laguna Beach has served as an artists’ colony, and spirited creatives have been drawn to and inspired by its coastal landscapes and warm local culture. —Acacia Gabriel, Travel + Leisure, 13 Nov. 2025

The sculpture — which generated spirited conversation at two public meetings over the summer — was installed earlier this month. —Domenica Bongiovanni, IndyStar, 12 Nov. 2025

Over 100 people attended, enjoying an evening of good food, local craft beer, live music and a spirited live auction – all in the name of a good cause. —News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Nov. 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