Feistier: meaning, definitions and examples

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feistier

 

[ ˈfaΙͺstΙͺΙ™r ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

attitude or behavior

Feistier is a comparative adjective derived from the word 'feisty,' which means lively, determined, and full of spirit. It suggests a more aggressive or spirited attitude compared to just 'feisty.' People who are described as feistier tend to be assertive and unafraid to express their opinions or stand their ground in a situation. Often used in the context of someone showing great energy or courage, feistier denotes a heightened level of enthusiasm or a more pronounced demeanor.

Synonyms

assertive, bold, sassy, spirited

Examples of usage

  • She became feistier as the competition progressed.
  • His feistier attitude shocked his friends.
  • The feistier puppies were always the first to explore.
  • You need to be feistier to win this debate.

Etymology

The term 'feisty' has its origins in the late 19th century, and it is believed to be derived from the word 'fice,' which is a dialect term for a small dog. The word 'fice' itself stems from the Old French term 'fice,' meaning 'a small dog.' This association of small dogs with spirited behavior likely influenced the evolution of the term 'feisty' to describe individuals displaying lively and determined characteristics. As the term gained popularity, it evolved to denote someone who is bold and spirited, particularly when standing up for themselves or their beliefs. The comparative form 'feistier' emerged as the language evolved, reflecting an increase in the level of assertiveness or liveliness in a person or situation. Over the years, the term has been commonly used to describe strong-willed individuals, especially women, and has maintained a positive, empowering connotation.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,027, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.