spiritful

[spir-it-fuhl]

adjective

1. having or showing zest, animation, energy, etc.; spirited; stirring.

   They opened with a spiritful set of foot-stomping dance tunes played on the banjo and fiddle.

   The workshop was led by a dynamic and spiritful presenter.

2. having or showing emotional or spiritual depth, power, refinement, interest, etc..

   This novel is soulful, spiritful, beautiful, alone in its league.

   She hopes her work will evoke healing influences in others and provide them with spiritful inspiration.

   He is a courageous and spiritful person who has undergone many trials and has not broken.

Word History and Origins

Origin of spiritful¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; spirit ( def. ) + -ful ( def. )

Example Sentences

“Dinah” is a blues-country meld that is toe-tappingly spiritful.

From Washington Times

This wine is exceeding pleasant, strong, spiritful and comfortable.

From Project Gutenberg

One thing more I would ask thee; 'tis that I might have a bolder steed, the one thou gavest me is not near spiritful enough for one who wishes to ride well and gayly.

From Project Gutenberg

Miss Howe is a charming creature too; but confoundedly smart and spiritful.

From Project Gutenberg

It’s as plain as a pikestaff, gudeman, and I’ll no let ye rest if ye dinna mak me a bailie’s wife or a’ be done”— I was not ill pleased to hear Mrs Pawkie so spiritful; but I replied, “Dinna try to stretch your arm, gude-wife, further than your sleeve will let you; we maun ca’canny mony a day yet before we think of dignities.”

From Project Gutenberg