spirit

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   The non-physical part of a person, thought of as the seat of feelings and character; the soul.

   Though his body was weak, his spirit remained strong.

2. 2
   noun

   A person's mood or emotional state.

   I was in high spirits after passing all my exams.

3. 3
   noun

   A supernatural being without a physical body, such as a ghost.

   Many believe the old house is haunted by a restless spirit.

4. 4
   noun

   Enthusiasm, energy, or determination.

   The team played with great spirit even though they were losing.

5. 5
   noun

   A strong distilled alcoholic drink, such as whisky or vodka.

   The bar serves wine, beer, and a wide range of spirits.

From Middle English spirit, from Old French espirit (“spirit”), from Latin spīritus (“breath; spirit”), from Proto-Indo-European *(s)peys- (“to blow, breathe”). Compare inspire, respire, transpire, all ultimately from Latin spīrō (“to breathe, blow, respire”). In this sense, displaced native Middle English gast (from Old English gāst), whence modern English ghost. Doublet of spiritus, spirytus, sprite, spright, and esprit.

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