WordValeverve
vigor and spirit; enthusiasm
In more detail
enthusiasm, energy, and liveliness shown in the way someone does something
Examples
- She performed the dance with great verve and passion.
How to use verve
Verve describes an enthusiastic, spirited quality that someone brings to an activity, often implying style and panache. It is more specific than general energy and emphasizes the liveliness and vigor of expression or execution. Common in contexts discussing artistic, athletic, or professional performance.
Common phrases
- with great verve
- lack of verve
- youthful verve
- perform with verve
- artistic verve
Synonyms
vigor · vitality · vivacity · zest · energy
Opposites
lethargy · apathy · torpor
Word family
verve (noun) · verveless (adjective)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use verve to mean merely competence or skill, when it specifically denotes the spirited quality or dynamic energy with which something is done, not technical ability.
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