Spry Meaning and Definition
Spry
Pronunciation
/ˈsprɪ/, /ˈsprʌɪ/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Spry refers to a person, especially an older one, who remains lively, energetic, and curious despite their age, often exhibiting a youthful spirit and a keen interest in life.
Examples
1. “Despite being in her eighties, she remains spry and active, enjoying her daily walks and hobbies.”
2. “He’s a spry old fellow, always ready to tell a joke or share a story.”
Synonyms
1. Lively
2. Energetic
3. Vigorous
Antonyms
1. Frail
2. Weak
3. Lethargic
Additional Information
Spry individuals often possess a unique combination of physical and mental vitality, which enables them to maintain their independence and engage in various activities. This quality is often admired and aspired to by others, as it represents a desirable state of being in older age. A spry person may be someone who continues to work, travel, or pursue hobbies with enthusiasm and dedication, inspiring those around them with their zest for life.
In addition to physical energy, a spry individual may also exhibit mental agility, being able to learn new things, adapt to new situations, and maintain a positive outlook on life. This mental spryness can be just as important as physical vitality, as it enables people to stay engaged, motivated, and fulfilled in their later years.
While the term “spry” is often associated with older adults, it can also be applied to people of any age who possess a lively and energetic spirit. In this sense, being spry is not just about physical or mental vitality, but also about attitude, outlook, and a willingness to engage with life.
Etymology
The word “spry” has its roots in the 16th century, derived from the Old English word “spreo,” meaning “active” or “lively.” Over time, the term evolved to encompass not only physical energy but also mental agility and a youthful spirit.
Usage Notes
When describing someone as spry, use it to convey their lively and energetic nature, often in contrast to what might be expected of someone of their age. Be mindful of the context, as the term can be used to express admiration or surprise.
Cultural References
The term “spry” has appeared in various forms of media, such as literature, film, and television, often to describe characters who defy age-related stereotypes. Examples include the spry and adventurous elderly characters in movies like “The Bucket List” or “Up.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Spry as a spring chicken” – used to describe someone who is surprisingly lively and energetic, often despite their age.
Collocations
1. “A spry old man” – used to describe an elderly person who remains lively and energetic.
2. “She’s still spry” – used to express surprise or admiration for someone’s vitality.
Frequency of Use
The term “spry” is moderately used in modern language, often appearing in informal contexts, such as conversations or social media posts, to describe someone’s energetic and lively nature.
Common Misspellings
1. Spry – Sprye, Spryed