Word
spirited
Phoneticsspir·it·ed, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈspɪɹɪtɪd/
UK/spˈɪɹɪtɪd/
Definitions
01lively and energetic
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. full of energy, enthusiasm, and life.
adj. characterised by animation, energy, or enthusiasm. Often used to describe social interactions or performances.
“The two friends had a spirited debate about which movie was better.”
“The evening concluded with a spirited performance of traditional folk songs that brought the entire audience to their feet.”
02determined and courageous
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. showing great courage or a strong will to succeed, especially in a difficult situation.
adj. demonstrating courage, determination, or resilience in the face of opposition or difficulty.
“The small team put up a spirited fight against the champions.”
“Despite the overwhelming odds, the local community mounted a spirited defence of the historic library, eventually forcing the council to reconsider the closure.”
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“The United States have won the Women’s Basketball World Cup for a record-extending 12th time, defeating a spirited France 97-79 in the final in Berlin.” “Despite her spirited defence, jewellery company Giva announced on Wednesday it was pulling the ad.” Word family
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
The word in film
Original artwork: theatrical poster courtesy of Studio Ghibli / Toho.
Spirited Away · 2001 · Fantasy
- Directed by:
- Hayao Miyazaki
- Starring:
- Rumi Hiiragi, Miyu Irino, Mari Natsuki
Hayao Miyazaki directs this Oscar-winning 2001 animated fantasy about a young girl who is transported into a mysterious realm of spirits. While the title draws on the phrasal verb meaning to be carried off mysteriously, the journey forces Chihiro to become courageous and spirited as she works to rescue her parents.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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