spunky

[ spuhng-kee ]

adjective

, spunk·i·er, spunk·i·est.

1. plucky; spirited.

Other Words From

• spunki·ly adverb
• spunki·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of spunky¹

First recorded in 1780–90; spunk + -y ¹

Example Sentences

The first was willing to entertain findings on everything from bufo, a venom derived from toad skin, to various herbs that had made rats extra-spunky—but there isn’t much data one way or the other on any of the included substances.

From Popular-Science

Ahead of her impending nuptials, Lopez’s spunky bride Charlie’s romance with her soon-to-be-husband Kevin takes a back seat to her major issues with his difficult mother Viola, played by a formidable and hilarious Jane Fonda.

From Time

The multi-talented Karrueche Tran effortlessly dons the spunky yet fun fashion choices her character Virginia Loc wears on the TNT hit, Claws.

From Essence.com

Instead, I try to make anger seem spunky and charming and sexy.

From Time

It’s always going to be tempting to feed the geese in the local pond and get up close with the spunky raccoons in your backyard.

From Popular-Science

Spunky and adventurous, Cricket epitomized the “high-risk lifestyle” law enforcement would later describe.

From The Daily Beast

That's Spunky Pete and no other,' says I, tumbling into my clothes and grabbing a lantern.

From Project Gutenberg

Spunky Jack made no reply to this, but took the letter and sat down.

From Project Gutenberg

"Spunky little sister," encouraged the elder girl, and helped the other to the seat.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• chirpy
• courageous
• energetic
• fearless
• high-spirited
• peppy
• plucky