spirited

The term spirited, when applied to women or girls, generally describes a personality characterized by high energy, enthusiasm, determination, and fortitude. Etymologically derived from the Latin spiritus (meaning breath, courage, or soul), the word was historically used to describe high-bred horses that were energetic and eager. When transitioned to human description, it denotes a person who displays vigor, liveliness, and a refusal to be easily discouraged.

However, the term is linguistically contested due to its gendered application and use as a euphemism. Critics argue that "spirited" is rarely applied to men—who are more likely to be labeled "assertive," "driven," or "leaders" for displaying the same traits—implying that a woman with these qualities is deviating from a traditional expectation of docility. In this view, the term can act as a patronizing code word for "difficult to control," "argumentative," or "stubborn," framing the woman's agency as something that requires management. Conversely, many view the term positively, using it to praise a woman's resilience and distinct lack of submissiveness in the face of adversity.

Example:
"The biography described the suffragette as a spirited campaigner who refused to be silenced by the authorities."

Example:
"While the performance review called her spirited, she worried it was a polite way of saying she challenged management too often."