pep

[ pep ]

noun

1. lively spirits or energy; vigor; animation.

verb phrase

1. to make or become spirited, vigorous, or lively; animate:

   We need something to pep up this party.

PEP

¹

/ pɛp /

acronym for

1. personal equity plan: a method of saving in the U.K. with certain tax advantages, in which investments up to a fixed annual value can be purchased: replaced by the ISA in 1999 but arrangements for existing PEPs remain unchanged

abbreviation for

1. political and economic planning

pep

²

/ pɛp /

noun

1. high spirits, energy, or vitality

verb

1. trusually foll byup to liven by imbuing with new vigour

Other Words From

• pepful adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pep¹

First recorded in 1840–50; short for pepper

Word History and Origins

Origin of pep¹

C20: short for pepper

Example Sentences

Schneider kicks off each Great Walk at a landmark, such as Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Shrine Auditorium or the Exposition Park Rose Garden, where there’s typically a guest speaker giving a pep talk.

From Los Angeles Times

She should visit the team before Game 1 on Friday — except manager Dave Roberts and his guys should be giving her a pep talk on how to win, not the other way around.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s the week of distractions for players and coaches, with interviews, banquets, pep rallies and constant phone calls seeking tickets.

From Los Angeles Times

She gives good pep talks and doesn’t charge for her services.

From Los Angeles Times

It was a "ridiculous business... when they made me try to persuade Harry to stay. Kind of manly pep talk. Totally hopeless", writes Johnson, about the meeting between the pair of Old Etonians.

From BBC

Related Words

• gusto
• starch
• verve