spitfire

noun

spit·​fire ˈspit-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce spitfire (audio)
: a quick-tempered or highly emotional person

Examples of spitfire in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Trump, who is known for his spitfire mudslinging, is sure to attack Biden’s age and policy, while Biden will likely touch on the former president’s recent criminal conviction and Democrats’ persistent message on defending democracy following the Jan. 6, 2021, riots at the Capitol. Rachel Schilke, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 23 June 2024 Here's a recap of Episode 3: Contestants make plan to target spitfire Kim Mattina. Journal Sentinel, 12 Mar. 2024 Also this week, Addis was a key player in the formation of a new alliance of sorts, one that involves spitfire Kim Mattina, 63. Hannah Kirby, Journal Sentinel, 5 Mar. 2024 The 'Game of Thrones' star opens up about her role as the sister of couturier Christian Dior and how the show's World War II setting affected her health Maisie Williams was just 12 when she was cast as sword-wielding spitfire Arya Stark on the hit HBO series Game of Thrones. Jason Sheeler, Peoplemag, 21 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for spitfire 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'spitfire.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1656, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spitfire was in 1656

Dictionary Entries Near spitfire

Cite this Entry

“Spitfire.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spitfire. Accessed 26 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

spitfire

noun
spit·​fire ˈspit-ˌfī(ə)r How to pronounce spitfire (audio)
: an easily angered or highly emotional person

More from Merriam-Webster on spitfire

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!