feisty
UK: ˈfaɪsti | US: ˈfaɪsti
adj. lively, determined, and courageous (often used to describe a person or animal with a spirited temperament)
adj. touchy or aggressive (when provoked)
feisty = feist<spirited small dog> + y<adjective suffix>
- feist: Originally from the dialectal term "feist" or "fice," referring to a small, spirited dog (likely derived from "fist," an older term for a breaking wind, humorously implying the dog's noisy energy).
- y: A common English suffix forming adjectives, indicating "characterized by" or "full of."
Etymology Origin:
The word "feisty" emerged in 19th-century American English, initially describing small, energetic dogs (like terriers) known for their boldness. Over time, it broadened to describe people with a similarly spirited, combative, or lively demeanor. The connection to "feist" (dog) reflects the cultural association of small but tenacious animals with fiery personalities.
The feisty kitten batted at the dog’s tail without fear.
Despite her size, she’s a feisty competitor who never backs down.
His feisty response to the criticism surprised everyone.
The debate grew heated as the feisty panelists clashed.
Grandma’s feisty attitude keeps her young at heart.