spunky

adjective

ˈspəŋ-kē 

spunkier; spunkiest

: full of spunk : spirited

spunkily

ˈspəŋ-kə-lē 

adverb

spunkiness

ˈspəŋ-kē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of spunky

• spirited
• fiery
• passionate
• peppery
• brisk
• high-spirited

Examples of spunky in a Sentence

a spunky determination to make the best of a bad situation

Recent Examples on the Web

The world’s most famous doll was inspired by a spunky, high-end call girl named Lilli. — Serena Turner, Vanity Fair, 3 Nov. 2026

In the candid image, Louis, now 8, showed off a glimpse of his signature spunky personality. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 31 Oct. 2026

Houk won $100 in a university contest for her unusual spunky character, which has a tough-guy body under his sun flare for a head. — Luisa Yanez, Miami Herald, 28 Oct. 2026

As the sports and dorm director, Coach Walter Oakes has a spunky vibe that ignites students’ interest. — Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 24 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for spunky

• chunky
• funky
• hunky
• junkie
• monkey

Kids Definition

spunky

adjective

ˈspəŋ-kē 

spunkier; spunkiest

: full of spunk : spirited

spunkily

-kə-lē 

adverb

spunkiness

-kē-nəs 

noun