scrappy
adj.adj. having a strong, determined spirit and a willingness to fight or compete, even when you are the underdog. It describes someone who works hard and doesn't give up easily.
adj. characterised by a determined, aggressive, or competitive spirit, particularly when facing superior odds. Often describes individuals or organisations that compensate for a lack of resources with tenacity and grit.
The scrappy little team won the championship against all odds.
Starting in a garage with almost no funding, the scrappy startup eventually disrupted the entire tech industry.
The candidate's scrappy performance during the debate appealed to voters who felt the establishment had grown complacent and disconnected from everyday struggles.
From scrap + -y.
Informal in register; often used as a term of praise for underdogs.