# spirited

/ˈspɪɹɪtɪd/ (US) · /spˈɪɹɪtɪd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spirited
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. lively and energetic

adjective · CEFR B2

full of energy, enthusiasm, and life.

For teachers: 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.

### 2. determined and courageous

adjective · CEFR B2

showing great courage or a strong will to succeed, especially in a difficult situation.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The spirited debate lasted for two hours.
- Her spirited defense of the new policy impressed the entire committee.
- The team displayed a spirited resistance against the odds, turning a likely defeat into a hard-fought draw.

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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.