Langimage
English

fitfully

|fit-ful-ly|

C1

/ˈfɪtfəli/

(fitful)

irregular

Base FormAdverb
fitfulfitfully
Etymology
Etymology Information

'fitful' originates from the English word 'fit,' which referred to a sudden burst of activity or emotion.

Historical Evolution

'fitful' evolved from the Middle English word 'fitten,' which meant 'to struggle or fight,' and eventually became the modern English word 'fitful.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'subject to fits or bursts,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'irregular or intermittent.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in an irregular or intermittent manner.

He slept fitfully throughout the night.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/31 17:36