spunky
Full of moxie
Spunky describes someone with spirit, courage, or determination, especially when facing larger forces or difficult odds.
The word carries affection—a spunky kid stands up to bullies, a spunky underdog refuses to quit.
She's a spunky little thing, isn't she?
The tone is admiring but slightly diminutive, often applied to those who punch above their weight.
Courageous despite disadvantage
- braveShowing courage despite fear
- gutsyInformally courageous
- boldCourageous and daring
- daringAdventurous courage
valiant · intrepid · fearless · undaunted · gallant · mettlesome · lionhearted · stouthearted
plucky
Courageous despite disadvantage
daring · valiant · intrepid · fearless · undaunted · gallant · mettlesome · lionhearted · stouthearted · resolute
scrappy
Aggressively spirited despite odds
bold · gutsy · snappy · saucy · defiant · brassy · cheeky · mouthy · audacious · confrontational
lively
Animated and energetic
- peppyEnergetic and cheerful
- bubblyFizzy or cheerfully animated
- vivaciousAttractively energetic and enthusiastic
spirited · animated · exuberant · zippy · perky · chipper · sprightly · jaunty · effervescent · vibrant
- slang traitsbossy, brainy, bubbly, chatty, cheeky
- upbeatcheerful, lighthearted, peppy, lively, animated
- tough traitstough, resilient, fearless, brave, courageous
- childlike innocenceinnocence, wonder, curiosity, playfulness, imagination
spunkycowardly
Without bravery or nerve
timid · fearful · meek · spineless · fainthearted
spunkymeek
Humbly unassertive
spiritless · passive · unassertive · submissive · halfhearted