noun
spirit
SPIH-riht
noun
1
The non-physical part of a person believed to hold their character, emotions, or soul.
"Her spirit remained unbroken despite the hardship."
2
A supernatural being, such as a ghost.
"Locals claim the old house is haunted by a restless spirit."
3
Enthusiasm, energy, or courage.
"The team played with real spirit despite being down two goals."
4
A strong distilled alcoholic drink; in the plural, distilled liquor generally.
"The bar stocks a wide range of spirits, from whisky to gin."
5
The true intention or meaning behind a rule or statement, as opposed to its literal wording.
"They followed the spirit of the agreement even when the exact wording was unclear."
How to Use Spirit
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe soul or inner self, enthusiasm, a ghost, distilled liquor, or the true intent of a rule, depending on context.
Common mistake
The "spirit of the law" means its underlying intent, not its literal wording — the opposite is "the letter of the law."
Common pairings
team spirit
the spirit of the law
spirits and mixers
Word Forms
spirited past tense, spirits plural, spirits singular
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Etymology
From Latin spīritus, "breath" or "spirit," from a root meaning "to blow or breathe" — related to words like inspire and respire.