spunkier; spunkiest
Synonyms of spunky
: full of spunk : spirited
spunkily adverb
spunkiness noun

Examples of spunky in a Sentence

a spunky determination to make the best of a bad situation
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The average lifespan for the spunky toy breed, Maltese is 15 years. Katelyn Chef, Martha Stewart, 12 Apr. 2026 Torres said that despite her diagnosis, Valentina has retained her spunky personality. Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 4 Apr. 2026 The original movie, released in 1999, starred Fraser as treasure hunter who travels to Egypt in the 1920s with a spunky librarian, played by Weisz, only to accidentally awaken a supernaturally powerful high priest. Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 27 Mar. 2026 While Robbie’s Cathy is spunky, stubborn, and independent, Elordi’s Heathcliff is brooding, desperate, and clingy. Kathleen Newman-Bremang, Refinery29, 12 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for spunky

Word History

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spunky was in 1786

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spunky.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spunky. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

spunky

adjective
spunkier; spunkiest
: full of spunk : spirited
spunkily adverb
spunkiness noun

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