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Spry: meaning, definitions and examples

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spry

 

[sprʌɪ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

energetic

active and lively; nimble

Synonyms

active, lively, nimble.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spry

Often used to describe older people who are unexpectedly agile and energetic.

  • Although he was in his seventies, Grandpa was still spry and could keep up with the grandchildren.
  • The spry old lady danced with a vigor that belied her age.
lively

Used to describe someone or something full of energy, spirit, and enthusiasm. It can be used for people, events, or atmospheres.

  • The party was lively, with music, dancing, and laughter filling the room.
  • Her lively personality always brightens up the office.
nimble

Describes quick and light movement or mental agility. Often used to highlight dexterity.

  • The cat was nimble and easily jumped from one fence to another.
  • With his nimble fingers, he could solve the Rubik's cube in under a minute.
active

Can describe anyone or anything that is engaged in frequent physical or mental activity.

  • He’s very active in his community and often volunteers at the local shelter.
  • After retiring, she decided to stay active by taking up gardening and hiking.

Examples of usage

  • She's still spry for her age.
  • The spry little dog raced around the yard.
Context #2 | Noun

elderly person

an elderly person who is active and agile

Synonyms

active elder, agile senior.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spry

Best used to describe someone who is elderly but unexpectedly lively and energetic.

  • Despite her age, Grandma is still very spry and loves to dance.
agile senior

Highlights the physical agility and mobility of an older person, often used in admiration.

  • At 75, he is an agile senior who practices yoga every morning.
active elder

Appropriate for politely and respectfully acknowledging an older person's active lifestyle.

  • Mr. Johnson is an active elder who volunteers at the community center every day.

Examples of usage

  • Despite being in her 80s, she is a spry who enjoys hiking and dancing.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'spry' comes from the Middle English 'sprye,' indicating lively or active.
  • It has roots in the Old Norse word 'sprø' meaning 'lively' or 'energetic.'
  • The term became popular in the 18th century, often used to describe older people who maintained their liveliness.

Cultural References

  • In popular culture, 'spry' is often associated with elderly figures who defy age norms, such as grandparents in energetic roles.
  • The phrase 'spry as a young buck' highlights how older individuals can possess youthful energy.
  • Literary works often depict spry characters to convey wisdom and vitality, making them relatable across generations.

Psychology

  • Psychological studies suggest that maintaining a positive attitude contributes to physical mobility in older adults.
  • Studies show that regular physical activity can enhance the perception of being 'spry' or youthful.
  • The mental association of being spry with vitality can influence self-esteem and social engagement among older adults.

Health and Wellness

  • Staying spry can be linked to a balanced diet and regular exercise, helping prevent chronic aging issues.
  • Research indicates that mobility exercises can improve balance, leading to a more active lifestyle in older age.
  • Social engagement from activities often helps maintain the 'spry' mindset among senior populations.

Language Variations

  • 'Spry' is often replaced with terms like 'lively' or 'vigorous' in different regions.
  • In some dialects, synonyms like 'peppy' or 'zippy' convey a similar sense of energy and enthusiasm.
  • While 'spry' encompasses both physical and mental agility, other terms may focus solely on one aspect.

Translations

Translations of the word "spry" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ágil

🇮🇳 चुस्त

🇩🇪 flink

🇮🇩 gesit

🇺🇦 спритний

🇵🇱 zręczny

🇯🇵 機敏な (kibin na)

🇫🇷 agile

🇪🇸 ágil

🇹🇷 çevik

🇰🇷 민첩한 (mincheop han)

🇸🇦 رشيق

🇨🇿 čiperný

🇸🇰 svižný

🇨🇳 敏捷的 (mǐnjié de)

🇸🇮 okreten

🇮🇸 kvikur

🇰🇿 епті

🇬🇪 მარჯვე (marjve)

🇦🇿 çevik

🇲🇽 ágil

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,596 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.