jaunty

[ jawn-tee, jahn- ]

adjective

, jaun·ti·er, jaun·ti·est.

1. easy and sprightly in manner or bearing:

   to walk with a jaunty step.

2. smartly trim, as clothing:

   a jaunty hat.

jaunty

/ ˈdʒɔːntɪ /

adjective

1. sprightly, self-confident, and cheerful; brisk

   a jaunty step

2. smart; trim

   a jaunty hat

Derived Forms

• ˈjauntily, adverb
• ˈjauntiness, noun

Other Words From

• jaun·ti·ly adverb
• jaun·ti·ness noun
• un·jaun·ty adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of jaunty¹

First recorded in 1655–65; earlier jentee, juntee, from French gentil “noble, gentle” ( genteel ), with ending taken as -y ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of jaunty¹

C17: from French gentil noble; see genteel

Example Sentences

Unusually jaunty when he met with reporters Monday, Foster poked fun at the academic merits of the school across town.

From Los Angeles Times

That jaunty jazz is sandwiched between two sections that fuse tribal rhythms with ambient synth sounds, making it quickly clear that gamers were in for a wide-ranging musical adventure.

From New York Times

A motorik beat, jaunty bass line and melodic wafts of keyboard make the track go down with a disarming ease.

From New York Times

He leaves the others stunned and David mortified until the storm cloud passes and he’s his jaunty, loquacious self again.

From Los Angeles Times

With a rendition of Frank Sinatra’s jaunty “Fly Me to the Moon,” Payne showed off his immaculate pitch and rich vocal tone, and a rakish presence beyond his years.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• breezy
• buoyant
• carefree
• devilish
• impish
• jolly
• jovial
• perky
• playful
• rollicking
• sprightly