spiritful

[ spir-it-fuhl ]

adjective

1. having or showing zest, animation, energy, etc.; spirited; stirring:

   They opened with a spiritful set of foot-stomping dance tunes played on the banjo and fiddle.

   The workshop was led by a dynamic and spiritful presenter.

2. having or showing emotional or spiritual depth, power, refinement, interest, etc.:

   This novel is soulful, spiritful, beautiful, alone in its league.

   She hopes her work will evoke healing influences in others and provide them with spiritful inspiration.

   He is a courageous and spiritful person who has undergone many trials and has not broken.

Word History and Origins

Origin of spiritful¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; spirit ( def ) + -ful ( def )

Example Sentences

“Dinah” is a blues-country meld that is toe-tappingly spiritful.

From Washington Times

This wine is exceeding pleasant, strong, spiritful and comfortable.

From Project Gutenberg

One thing more I would ask thee; 'tis that I might have a bolder steed, the one thou gavest me is not near spiritful enough for one who wishes to ride well and gayly.

From Project Gutenberg

Miss Howe is a charming creature too; but confoundedly smart and spiritful.

From Project Gutenberg

It’s as plain as a pikestaff, gudeman, and I’ll no let ye rest if ye dinna mak me a bailie’s wife or a’ be done”— I was not ill pleased to hear Mrs Pawkie so spiritful; but I replied, “Dinna try to stretch your arm, gude-wife, further than your sleeve will let you; we maun ca’canny mony a day yet before we think of dignities.”

From Project Gutenberg