spry

[sprahy]

adjective

spryer, spryest, sprier, spriest. 

1. active; nimble; agile; energetic; brisk.

spry

/ spraɪ /

adjective

1. active and brisk; nimble

Other Word Forms

• spryness noun
• spryly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of spry¹

First recorded in 1740–50; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of spry¹

C18: perhaps of Scandinavian origin; compare Swedish dialect spragg _sprig

Example Sentences

"My ancestors have always remained spry, both mentally and physically, and all remained very active right into their old age," she says.

Read more on BBC

The spry assistance of stagehands, who not only move set pieces but help flesh out the world of the play, is a jaunty touch.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It’s refreshing to see a romp this spry.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

As the multigenerational strands connect, Diaz’s spry narrative voice remains a constant, a propulsive mix of English, Spanish and Spanglish, an urban bouillabaisse of flavor and purpose.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

As the last rays of the sun disappeared, Borys, a spry and upright retired colonel of 70 who served 30 years in the Soviet army stopped on his way to his car.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• agile 
• brisk 
• energetic 
• lithe 
• robust 
• sprightly