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Fitful: meaning, definitions and examples

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fitful

 

[ ˈfɪtfl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

sleep pattern

Fitful refers to something that is not regular or steady, often characterized by breaks or interruptions. It is frequently used to describe disturbed or restless sleep, where a person may wake up frequently rather than staying asleep throughout the night. The term suggests an inconsistent or unreliable state, which can lead to feelings of fatigue or frustration. Fitful can also apply to other situations where a lack of continuity or stability is evident.

Synonyms

disrupted, intermittent, irregular, restless

Examples of usage

  • He had a fitful night's sleep due to the noise outside.
  • The fitful flames of the campfire flickered in the wind.
  • Her fitful attempts to concentrate were interrupted by constant distractions.

Translations

Translations of the word "fitful" in other languages:

🇵🇹 intermitente

🇮🇳 अनियमित

🇩🇪 unregelmäßig

🇮🇩 tidak teratur

🇺🇦 переривчастий

🇵🇱 przerywany

🇯🇵 不規則な

🇫🇷 irrégulier

🇪🇸 irregular

🇹🇷 düzensiz

🇰🇷 불규칙한

🇸🇦 غير منتظم

🇨🇿 nepravidelný

🇸🇰 nepravidelný

🇨🇳 不规律的

🇸🇮 nepravilno

🇮🇸 óreglulega

🇰🇿 ретсіз

🇬🇪 არარეგულარული

🇦🇿 düzensiz

🇲🇽 irregular

Etymology

The word 'fitful' dates back to the early 16th century, originating from the Middle English term 'fitfel,' which itself can be traced to the Old English word 'fit,' meaning 'a sudden occurrence or attack.' The suffix '-ful' indicates 'full of' or 'characterized by,' thereby lending the word its current meaning of being characterized by fits or irregular intervals. Over the centuries, 'fitful' has primarily been used to describe unease or disruptions in various conditions, particularly sleep, suggesting a lack of peace or continuity. As language evolved, the term became associated with not only sleep disturbances but also other contexts where inconsistency is prominent, highlighting the versatility of the word in the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,182, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.