Spry: meaning, definitions and examples

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spry

 

[ sprʌɪ ]

Adjective / Noun
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.

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

Etymology

The word 'spry' originated in the mid-18th century, derived from the Old English word 'spræc', meaning active or lively. Over time, the meaning of 'spry' evolved to describe someone who is active and nimble, particularly in their older age. The term is often used to compliment older individuals who maintain their agility and energy.

See also: spryness.

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.