French word

esprit

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛspʁi/

Meaning

  • masculine nounspirit

Example

Son esprit est calme.

His spirit is calm.

Illustration for esprit (spirit)

More examples

Elle a toujours de l'esprit en réunion.

She is always witty in meetings.

Core concept

A quick, finely tuned mind that catches connections and produces an apt idea or reply.

Common phrases

  • avoir de l'esprit

    to be witty

  • esprit d'équipe

    team spirit

  • esprit critique

    critical thinking

Similar words

présence d'esprit: Composure and quick judgment when unexpected action is needed.
humour: A talent for amusing others or lightening the mood through words or manner.

Definition in French

Rapidité et finesse de l'intelligence permettant la réflexion rapide, la créativité ou la répartie.

Word origin

French esprit comes through Old French from Latin spiritus, meaning 'breath' or 'spirit', with life and mind senses later extending to intelligence and wit.

Usage tips

  • In avoir de l'esprit, de l'esprit means wit or cleverness, while esprit has broader meanings such as mind or spirit in other contexts.

Other meanings

  • mindnoun
  • intelligencenoun
  • witnoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word