esprit
/'espri:/
Definition
- Noun:
- Liveliness of mind or spirit: A quality of being witty, intellectually sharp, and full of spirited energy. It often implies a quick, clever, and engaging intelligence.
Usage
- This word is used to describe a person's character or the atmosphere of a group. It is a positive term that suggests charm and mental agility. It is often used in formal or literary contexts.
Examples
- Noun:
- The conversation at the dinner table was full of wit and esprit.
- She is admired for her esprit and engaging personality.
Advanced Usage
- "esprit de corps": A feeling of pride, fellowship, and common loyalty shared by the members of a particular group.
- The military unit had a strong esprit de corps that helped them through difficult times.
- "esprit de l'escalier" (French, literally "staircase wit"): The feeling of thinking of a clever comeback or remark only after the conversation has ended.
- After the argument, he was plagued by esprit de l'escalier, thinking of all the things he should have said.
Variants and Related Words
- Esprit is a loanword from French and is typically used in its original form in English. There is no direct English verb or adjective form.
- Wit (n): The capacity for inventive thought and quick understanding; keen intelligence.
- Vivacity (n): The quality of being attractively lively and animated.
Synonyms
- Wit
- Cleverness
- Vivacity
- Liveliness
- Brilliance
Antonyms
- Dullness
- Stolidity
- Heaviness
Related Idioms and Phrases
- "Full of esprit": Describes someone or something brimming with lively intelligence and spirit.
- Her letters are always full of esprit and amusing observations.
Noun
-
liveliness of mind or spirit
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