brisk

[brisk]

adjective

brisker, briskest 

1. quick and active; lively.

   brisk trading;

   a brisk walk.

   Synonyms: alert, energetic, spry
   Antonyms: languid

2. sharp and stimulating: brisk wind.

   brisk weather;

   brisk wind.

3. (of liquors) effervescing vigorously.

   brisk cider.

4. abrupt; curt.

   I was surprised by her rather brisk tone.

verb (used with or without object)

brisked, brisking 

1. to make or become brisk; liven (often followed byup ).

brisk

/ brɪsk /

adjective

1. lively and quick; vigorous

   a brisk walk

   trade was brisk

2. invigorating or sharp

   brisk weather

verb

1. (often foll by up) to enliven; make or become brisk

Other Word Forms

• briskly adverb
• briskness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of brisk¹

First recorded in 1580–90; of uncertain origin

Word History and Origins

Origin of brisk¹

C16: probably variant of _brusque

Example Sentences

Mr. Abeysekera speaks the verse at a dazzlingly brisk clip but with natural clarity.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

A wave of fans trot across the parking lot, some dashing, some maintaining a brisk pace.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Even a stroll outside in the brisk autumn air can be dampened by the stray glimpse of a red baseball cap.

Read more on Salon

Four brisk walks weekly for 30 minutes, ideally outdoors, can work wonders.

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Some of the recent films have done brisk business.

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Related Words

• energetic 
• lively 
• quick 
• speedy 
• spry 
• vigorous