Alacrity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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alacrity

[əˈlakrɪti ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

with which something is done

Brisk and cheerful readiness. Alacrity is a noun that describes a quick and eager willingness to do something, like the alacrity with which a kid volunteers to feed the class guinea pig.

Synonyms

eagerness, enthusiasm, promptness, readiness, willingness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
alacrity	When describing someone's cheerful readiness or brisk and eager action, often applied in formal contexts. She accepted the invitation with alacrity. His alacrity in completing the tasks impressed his boss.
eagerness	To convey a strong desire or keen interest in doing something, often used in both formal and informal contexts. The children showed great eagerness to open their presents. His eagerness to learn new skills was evident.
enthusiasm	To show intense and eager enjoyment or interest, commonly used in informal settings and positive contexts. Her enthusiasm for the project was contagious. He spoke with great enthusiasm about his trip.
promptness	To describe being timely, quick, or without delay, often in professional or formal contexts. Her promptness in replying to emails was appreciated by her clients. The meeting started with promptness at exactly 9 AM.
readiness	To indicate being fully prepared or willing to act, suitable for both formal and informal situations. He expressed his readiness to begin the project immediately. The team's readiness for the match was evident.
willingness	To describe the quality of being prepared to do something, generally implying consent or eagerness, used in a variety of contexts. Her willingness to help out was greatly appreciated. He showed a willingness to learn new things.

Examples of usage

She accepted the challenge with alacrity.
The team responded to the coach's request with alacrity.
He showed alacrity in completing the task.
The students tackled the project with alacrity.
Their alacrity in helping us was much appreciated.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

liveliness and briskness

Liveliness; briskness. Alacrity can also mean liveliness or briskness. If someone moves with alacrity, they are moving quickly and energetically.

Synonyms

agility, energy, nimbleness, vitality, vivacity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
alacrity	This word is appropriate when describing someone's eagerness or cheerful willingness to do something. She responded with alacrity to the job offer The students showed alacrity in participating in the new project
vivacity	Vivacity often describes lively and spirited behavior, typically of a person’s temperament or actions. Her vivacity made her the life of the party The actress's vivacity on stage captivated the audience
energy	Energy can refer to both physical and emotional vigor or strength. It is a more general term than the others. The kids have a lot of energy in the morning His energy and enthusiasm are contagious
agility	Agility is used when talking about physical or mental quickness and coordination. The gymnast's agility was impressive during her routine He needs to improve his mental agility to solve problems faster
nimbleness	Nimbleness is applicable when describing quick and light movement, often physically or mentally. The cat moved with surprising nimbleness through the narrow space Her nimbleness with numbers made her an excellent accountant
vitality	Vitality is ideal for describing a strong, active, and energetic state of being. It can refer to health or zest for life. Despite his age, he has never lost his vitality The vitality of the city was evident in its vibrant nightlife

Examples of usage

The dancers moved with alacrity across the stage.
She spoke with alacrity and enthusiasm.
His alacrity in conversation was infectious.
Despite her age, she still moved with alacrity.
His alacrity in completing tasks impressed his boss.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

Shakespeare often used the term to describe characters who acted with eager readiness.
In modern literature, it captures the spirit of characters who are willing and enthusiastic, often leading to pivotal moments.
Stories that highlight teamwork often describe individuals' alacrity when facing challenges together.

Psychology

Having alacrity can enhance motivation and performance, as individuals are more engaged when they feel eager.
This eagerness is linked to positive emotional states, promoting better focus and creativity.
Psychologists suggest that fostering an environment that encourages alacrity can improve group dynamics.

Pop Culture

Movies portraying characters with a sense of adventure often use alacrity to define their bravado and enthusiasm.
In popular songs, lines might convey a carefree attitude indicative of alacrity, celebrating spontaneity and joy.
Famous figures in sports and entertainment often describe their careers in terms of alacrity, reflecting their quick rise to success.

Education

Alacrity in learning contexts is correlated with higher retention of information and a more enjoyable classroom atmosphere.
Teachers often seek to promote alacrity among students to foster a love for learning and participation.
Educational programs that incorporate fun and engaging activities emphasize the importance of alacrity for student success.

Origin of 'alacrity'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin ‘alacritas,’ meaning 'liveliness' or 'cheerfulness.'
It entered the English language in the 15th century, reflecting a sense of quickness and enthusiasm.
Related terms include ‘alacritous,’ which means having alacrity, emphasizing a state of readiness.

The word alacrity comes from the Latin word alacritas, which means eagerness or zeal. It entered the English language in the late 15th century. Alacrity has always been associated with a sense of briskness, readiness, and enthusiasm. The word has retained its positive connotations throughout its history, symbolizing a cheerful willingness to act promptly and energetically.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,548, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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19545 mediocrity
19546 faulted
19547 outboard
19548 alacrity
19549 quickening
19550 ado
19551 beneficially
...