esprit
UK[ɛˈspriː]US[ɛˈspriː]
n
Liveliness of mind or spirit; wit.
Etymology
The word 'esprit' entered English directly from French, retaining its original spelling and core meaning of "spirit" or "mind." Its ultimate source is the Latin 'spiritus,' which referred literally to breath and figuratively to the animating principle of life, the soul, or character. This Latin term evolved from the Proto-Indo-European root for blowing, connecting the concept of spirit to the vital breath. In English, 'esprit' specialized to denote not just spirit, but a particular quality of it: a quick, witty, and lively intelligence, often preserved in phrases like 'esprit de corps' (group spirit).
Analysis
The entire word is a simplex loanword from French. It originates from the Latin 'spiritus' meaning "breath, spirit," which itself derives from the Proto-Indo-European root (s)peis- meaning "to blow."
Examples
The conversation was filled with esprit and clever repartee.
She is admired for her esprit and sharp sense of humor.
The team's success was bolstered by a strong sense of esprit de corps.