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Spitfire - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

spitfire

/ˈspɪtˌfaɪər/ /ˈspɪtˌfaɪə/

Definition:

A person, especially a woman, with a fierce temper or strong personality.

Synonyms:

firebrand, hothead, termagant, virago

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

pacifist, pushover

Common Collocations:

fiery spitfire, legendary spitfire, notorious spitfire

Derivatives:

spitfires (plural), spitfired (rare/archaic)

Usage Tips:

Use "spitfire" to describe someone with a quick temper or bold personality, often in admiration or exasperation.

Common Phrases:

old spitfire, little spitfire, fiery as a spitfire

Etymology:

Originates from combining "spit" (implying sharpness) and "fire" (suggesting intensity), first used in the 17th century.

Examples:

  • 1. She’s a real spitfire when defending her friends.
  • 2. The coach admired the team’s spitfire attitude during the game.
  • 3. My grandmother was a spitfire who never backed down from an argument.
  • 4. The novel’s heroine is a charming but unpredictable spitfire.

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