# pert

/ˈpɝt/ (US) · /pˈɜːt/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pert
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

describing someone or something that looks attractive, lively, and firm. It is often used to describe a person's features, like a nose, or their confident attitude.

For teachers: characterised by a lively, confident, or jaunty manner; also used to describe small, firm, and attractive physical features. Often carries a connotation of being slightly bold or impudent in a playful way.

## Examples

- She wore a pert little hat on her head.
- The child gave a pert answer to the teacher's question, showing a confidence that bordered on being cheeky.
- The illustrator captured the character's spirited personality by giving her a pert nose and a constant, slightly defiant smirk that suggested she was never intimidated by authority.

## Usage notes

- Typically used to describe physical features or a person's spirited, slightly bold manner.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.