terrierlike
Small but tenacious
Resembling or characteristic of a terrier—the small, energetic dogs bred to hunt vermin.
Terrierlike behavior suggests scrappy persistence, quick movements, or tenacious pursuit: She had a terrierlike determination to uncover the truth.
The word often implies someone who won't let go of something once they've latched on.
Firmly committed to purpose
- persistentContinuing despite difficulty
- tenaciousStubbornly determined to continue
- doggedStubbornly persevering
- resoluteFixed in purpose
steadfast · unwavering · unyielding · obstinate · stubborn · relentless · unrelenting · indefatigable
Aggressively spirited despite odds
- spunkyCourageous and lively
- pugnaciousInclined to quarrel
- combativeInclined toward conflict
- belligerentHostile and eager to clash
aggressive · quarrelsome · confrontational · chippy · testy · snappy · nippy · sassy
Animated and energetic
vivacious · animated · playful · frolicsome · zippy · perky · exuberant · frisky
Carefully attentive, observant
- keenSharp or enthusiastic
- sharp-eyedHaving keen vision
- attentivePaying close notice
- vigilantKeenly aware of danger
observant · perceptive · responsive · aware · ready · bright-eyed · curious · inquisitive
determined
Firmly committed to purpose
- persistentContinuing despite difficulty
- tenaciousStubbornly determined to continue
- doggedStubbornly persevering
resolute · steadfast · unwavering · unyielding · obstinate · stubborn · relentless · unrelenting · indefatigable · single-minded
scrappy
Aggressively spirited despite odds
- spunkyCourageous and lively
- pugnaciousInclined to quarrel
- combativeInclined toward conflict
belligerent · aggressive · quarrelsome · confrontational · chippy · testy · snappy · nippy · sassy · bold
lively
Animated and energetic
sprightly · vivacious · animated · playful · frolicsome · zippy · perky · exuberant · frisky · spry
watchful
Carefully attentive, observant
- keenSharp or enthusiastic
- sharp-eyedHaving keen vision
- attentivePaying close notice
vigilant · observant · perceptive · responsive · aware · ready · bright-eyed · curious · inquisitive · eager
terrierlikelumbering
Moving heavily and awkwardly
ponderous · sluggish · elephantine · ungainly · hulking
terrierlikemeek
Humbly unassertive
submissive · passive · timid · yielding · mild-mannered