First Known Use: 1560
Dictionary
1brisk
adjective \ˈbrisk\
: moving or speaking quickly : quick and efficient
: pleasantly cool or cold
: done with quickness and energy
Full Definition of BRISK
1
: keenly alert : lively
2
a : pleasingly tangy <brisk tea> b : fresh, invigorating <brisk weather>
3
: sharp in tone or manner
4
— brisk·ly adverb
— brisk·ness noun
See brisk defined for English-language learners
See brisk defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of BRISK
probably modification of Middle French brusque
Related to BRISK
- Synonyms
- active, airy, animate, animated, bouncing, lively, energetic, frisky, gay, jaunty, jazzy, kinetic, mettlesome, peppy, perky, pert, pizzazzy (or pizazzy), racy, snappy, spanking, sparky, spirited, sprightly, springy, vital, vivacious, zippy
- Antonyms
- dead, inactive, inanimate, lackadaisical, languid, languishing, languorous, leaden, lifeless, limp, listless, spiritless, vapid
2brisk
verb
Definition of BRISK
transitive verb
: to make brisk
intransitive verb
: to become brisk —usually used with up <business brisked up>
First Known Use of BRISK
1598
BRISKLY Defined for Kids
brisk
adjective \ˈbrisk\
Definition of BRISK for Kids
1
: done or spoken with quickness and energy <a brisk walk>
2
: quick and efficient <a brisk voice>
3
: very refreshing <brisk fall weather>
— brisk·ly adverb
Learn More About BRISK
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: briskenPrevious Word in the Dictionary: brisé voléAll Words Near: brisk
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up brisk? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).