Spirit: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'spirit' to refer to the non-physical part of a person that is the seat of emotions and character. It's often used in a positive or neutral context.

• Her spirit was unbroken, despite all the difficulties.
• They celebrated the spirit of teamwork and cooperation.

Use 'soul' to talk about the spiritual or immaterial part of a human being that is often considered immortal. It's used in religious, emotional, or literary contexts.

• He prayed for the soul of the departed.
• Music can touch the soul in profound ways.

Use 'entity' in more formal, legal, or abstract contexts to refer to anything that exists as a single and complete unit, especially something that is living or has an existence.

• The company became an independent entity after the merger.
• Artificial intelligence can be considered a new kind of entity.

Use 'essence' to talk about the most important part or fundamental nature of something or someone. It's often used in philosophical, literary, or poetic contexts.

• The essence of his argument was hard to grasp.
• She captured the essence of the character in her performance.

Often refers to one's emotional or mental state, enthusiasm, or morale. It can also refer to the non-physical part of a person, often used in a more abstract or metaphysical sense.

• The team's spirit was high after the victory.
• Her adventurous spirit led her to travel the world.

Describes the set of qualities or traits that define a person, often related to integrity, morals, and ethical behavior.

• He was known for his strong character and honesty.
• Her character was tested in times of adversity.

Similar to disposition but more fixed and inherent, it relates to a person's natural mood and behavior patterns. Used often in psychology to describe fundamental aspects of personality.

• His calm temperament made him an excellent negotiator.
• Each dog breed has a specific temperament that owners should be aware of.

Refers to a person's usual mood or temperament, how they typically react or behave in certain situations. Can sometimes have a slight negative connotation if describing a tendency toward negative emotions.

• She has a cheerful disposition, always smiling and positive.
• His irritable disposition made it hard for others to work with him.

Typically used in formal contexts to refer to distilled beverages. It can also mean the ethos or essence of something.

• This cocktail contains a quality spirit.
• The spirit of the holiday season is evident everywhere.

Often used to refer specifically to strong distilled alcoholic beverages. It is slightly more formal than 'booze' but less formal than 'spirit'.

• The liquor store closes at 10 PM.
• She prefers liquor over beer.

A general term often used in medical, scientific, and formal discussions to describe beverages containing ethanol.

• The doctor advised him to limit his alcohol intake.
• Alcohol is usually served at the party.

Informal and often used in a casual or humorous manner. Sometimes it can have a slightly negative connotation when referring to excessive drinking.

• They went out for some booze after work.
• He has a stash of booze hidden away.