Esprit: meaning, definitions and examples
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esprit
[ ɛˈsprē ]
intellectual spirit
Esprit is a French word that translates to 'spirit' in English. It often refers to a lively, witty, or spirited quality of mind. The term captures the essence of creativity, intelligence, and vivacity. In various contexts, it can describe the spark of inspiration or the vibrant enthusiasm in a person's character or actions. Esprit not only conveys a sense of enthusiasm but also a depth of understanding and insight.
Synonyms
enthusiasm, intellect, spirit, vivacity, wit
Examples of usage
- Her esprit shone through in her art.
- The team played with great esprit.
- He was admired for his esprit and quick wit.
social spirit
In another sense, esprit can also refer to the collective spirit or morale of a group. It is often used to talk about the camaraderie and unity within teams or communities. High esprit de corps in a military unit, for example, signifies strong morale and fellowship among members, often leading to better performance and cohesion during activities.
Synonyms
camaraderie, fellowship, morale, team spirit, unity
Examples of usage
- The esprit de corps of the team was evident.
- They fostered a sense of esprit within the organization.
- His leadership boosted the esprit among the crew.
Translations
Translations of the word "esprit" in other languages:
🇵🇹 espírito
- mente
- ânimo
🇮🇳 आत्मा
- मन
- उत्साह
🇩🇪 Geist
- Verstand
- Stimmung
🇮🇩 jiwa
- pikiran
- semangat
🇺🇦 дух
- розум
- настрій
🇵🇱 duch
- umysł
- nastrój
🇯🇵 精神 (せいしん)
- 心 (こころ)
- 気分 (きぶん)
🇫🇷 esprit
- mentalité
- humeur
🇪🇸 espíritu
- mente
- ánimo
🇹🇷 ruh
- zihin
- ruh hali
🇰🇷 정신 (jeongsin)
- 마음 (maeum)
- 기분 (gibun)
🇸🇦 روح (روح)
- عقل (عقل)
- مزاج (مزاج)
🇨🇿 duch
- mysl
- nálada
🇸🇰 duch
- myseľ
- nálada
🇨🇳 精神 (jīngshén)
- 思维 (sīwéi)
- 情绪 (qíngxù)
🇸🇮 duh
- misel
- razpoloženje
🇮🇸 andi
- huga
- skapandi
🇰🇿 рух
- сана
- көңіл-күй
🇬🇪 მოძღვრება (mots'ghvrueba)
- გონება (goneba)
- განწყობა (gants'voba)
🇦🇿 ruh
- ağıl
- ruh halı
🇲🇽 espíritu
- mente
- ánimo
Etymology
The term 'esprit' originates from the Old French word 'espry' or 'espreit,' which is derived from the Latin word 'spiritus,' meaning 'breath' or 'spirit.' Over centuries, 'esprit' has retained its association with the concept of spirit in a more abstract and intellectual way. In French culture, the word has been historically linked to notions of creativity and intellectual vitality. It has made its way into English usage, especially in phrases like 'esprit de corps,' reflecting the spirit of fellowship and commitment within groups. The transition of the word into English showcases its importance in describing social and creative phenomena, alongside the more emotional dimensions of what it means to be spirited.