Children's, Intermediate and Advanced Online English Dictionary & Thesaurus

Comprehensive
Dictionary Suite
Help
Help
Help
 
   
Display options
Show syllables
Show Lookup History
Double-Click Lookup
  Show Spanish support
 
Pronunciation
Wordsmyth
  Phonics
  IPA
 
Entry formats
Standard
  Classic
   

spir·it

spirit

pronunciation:
spi riht
parts of speech:
noun, transitive verb
features:
Word History
part of speech: noun
definition 1: the vital force that is thought to be an element of human beings; soul.
synonyms:
anima, soul
similar words:
animus, ghost, mind, psyche
definition 2: a supernatural being, such as a devil, ghost, fairy, or elf.
synonyms:
apparition, ghost, presence, specter
similar words:
phantom, soul
definition 3: the part of human nature that is separate and distinct from the physical.
synonyms:
mind, psyche, soul
definition 4: fundamental nature; essence.
synonyms:
core, essence
similar words:
being, character, flavor, genius, nature, quintessence
definition 5: disposition or character as marked by certain qualities such as courage and energy.
synonyms:
élan, pluck, vigor, vitality, vivacity
similar words:
disposition, grain, heart, morale
definition 6: (pl.) a feeling or mood.
in low spirits from the bad news
synonyms:
feeling, humor, mood
similar words:
tone
definition 7: the essential meaning or intent of a thing.
the spirit of the law
synonyms:
aim, intent, intention, purpose
definition 8: the prevailing character of something.
the revolutionary spirit of the century
synonyms:
character, mood
similar words:
complexion, flavor, genius, temper
definition 9: (pl.) alcoholic liquor.
synonyms:
alcohol, liquor
definition 10: (cap.) in Christianity, the Holy Ghost; third person of the Trinity.
synonyms:
Holy Ghost, Holy Spirit, Paraclete
 
part of speech: transitive verb
inflections: spirited, spiriting, spirits
definition 1: to remove secretly or mysteriously (usu. fol. by off or away).
The thieves spirited away our car.
similar words:
abduct, sneak, steal
definition 2: to infuse with spirit or determination; inspirit.
synonyms:
animate, hearten, inspirit
similar words:
arouse, embolden, encourage, inspire, kindle, quicken
Word History
Spirit comes from spiritus, a Latin word that could mean either "breath" or "soul." In cultures even more ancient than the Roman or Greek, the breath and the soul were the same thing.