Sprightly means lively, energetic, and full of cheerful spirit. A sprightly person moves with bounce and enthusiasm, like a gymnast who springs across the mat or a dancer who leaps through a routine with obvious joy.

The word often describes older people who have kept their energy and zest for life. Your grandmother might be sprightly if she still loves hiking, gardening, and playing active games with her grandchildren rather than sitting quietly all day. When someone moves in a sprightly way, they seem younger than their years, full of vigor and liveliness.

You can also use sprightly to describe music with a quick, upbeat tempo or a story told with energy and wit. A sprightly tune makes you want to tap your feet, while a sprightly conversation moves quickly and keeps everyone engaged and laughing.

The word carries a sense of lightness and quickness. A sprightly walk has speed combined with a spring in its step, a sense of joy in the movement itself.