Langimage
English

spirit

|spir/it|

B1

/ˈspɪrɪt/

essence or mood

Etymology
Etymology Information

'spirit' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'spiritus,' where 'spirare' meant 'to breathe.'

Historical Evolution

'spiritus' transformed into the Old French word 'espirit,' and eventually became the modern English word 'spirit' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'breath' or 'life force,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'soul' or 'essence.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the non-physical part of a person regarded as their true self, capable of surviving physical death or separation.

Many believe the spirit lives on after death.

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Noun 2

a person's mood or emotional state.

She was in high spirits after receiving the good news.

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Noun 3

the prevailing or typical quality, mood, or attitude of a person, group, or period of time.

The spirit of the 1960s was one of freedom and change.

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Verb 1

to convey rapidly and secretly.

The documents were spirited away before anyone noticed.

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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39