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Synonyms

high-spirited

American  
[hahy-spir-i-tid] / ˈhaɪˈspɪr ɪ tɪd /

adjective

  1. characterized by energetic enthusiasm, elation, vivacity, etc.

  2. boldly courageous; mettlesome.


high-spirited British  

adjective

  1. vivacious, bold, or lively

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

Etymology

Origin of high-spirited

First recorded in 1625–35

Vocabulary lists containing high-spirited

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Either way, the high-spirited jams are a throwback to a time when you still felt like clapping your hands, and maybe even saying “yeah. “

From Salon • Jun. 28, 2025

The bird flees from her car’s trunk to a watermelon truck to the space behind an armoire, with adults and children, including the high-spirited young daughter, Linda, in hot pursuit.

From New York Times • Feb. 29, 2024

Her mother relished Bonmati's disregard for gender norms, while her father would fashion a ball from aluminium foil and take on his young daughter in high-spirited games in the kitchen.

From BBC • Dec. 13, 2023

The event was scriptless, to honor a compromise with striking writers, but chock full of high-spirited Broadway performances drawing raucous cheers from an audience clearly thrilled to be there at all.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 12, 2023

Accustomed to their mother’s long workdays and their father’s extended absences, they missed Dorothy, but her departure didn’t interrupt their high-spirited lives replete with family, friends, and school.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly

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