verve

noun

ˈvərv How to pronounce verve (audio)
Synonyms of verve
1
a
: the spirit and enthusiasm animating artistic composition or performance : vivacity
b
: energy, vitality
2
archaic : special ability or talent

Synonyms of verve

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Examples of verve in a Sentence

She played with skill and verve.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Guy sang with typical verve and gusto. — George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 June 2026 The canvas had wit, verve, and precision. — Mark Rozzo, Vanity Fair, 12 June 2026 In other words, the poise, verve and bravado displayed by the models were part of the activism that was on display – not merely a front for a larger cause. — Eileen G'sell, The Conversation, 8 June 2026 Rocket, meanwhile, brought effortless youthful verve. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for verve

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French, caprice, from Old French, word, gossip, from Vulgar Latin *verva, from Latin verba, plural of verbum word — more at word

First Known Use

1697, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of verve was in 1697

Rhymes for verve

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Browse Nearby Words

vervain thoroughwort
verve
verveine
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Cite this Entry

“Verve.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/verve. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

verve

noun
ˈvərv How to pronounce verve (audio)
: lively enthusiasm

More from Merriam-Webster on verve

Nglish: Translation of verve for Spanish Speakers

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