spitfire: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal
Quick answer
What does “spitfire” mean?
A person, typically a woman or girl, who has a quick, fiery, and easily provoked temper.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person, typically a woman or girl, who has a quick, fiery, and easily provoked temper.
1. (Historical) A nickname for the British fighter plane, the Supermarine Spitfire, used by the RAF especially during World War II. 2. A person who is energetic, lively, and defiant, often in a positive or spirited way.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The aircraft sense is far more salient in British English due to its central role in national history (the Battle of Britain). The 'person with a temper' sense is understood but less common in modern use in both varieties.
Connotations
In the UK, 'Spitfire' is strongly associated with national pride, heroism, and historical legacy. In the US, while recognized, it lacks the same deep cultural resonance.
Frequency
Overall low frequency. Higher in UK English in historical/aviation contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “spitfire” in a Sentence
She is a real spitfire.The Spitfire was iconic.He restored a vintage Spitfire.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “spitfire” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He has a spitfire temperament.
American English
- She gave a spitfire response.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used. Potentially as a metaphor for a disruptive but innovative employee: 'She's the spitfire of the marketing team, always challenging old ideas.'
Academic
Used in historical/military studies referring to the aircraft.
Everyday
Most likely used in a descriptive, figurative way for a person: 'My grandmother was a real spitfire in her youth.'
Technical
In aviation history/restoration circles, refers specifically to the Supermarine Spitfire aircraft.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “spitfire”
Strong
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “spitfire”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “spitfire”
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'He spitfires at everyone').
- Assuming it is always negative; it can be admiring.
- Misspelling as two words: 'spit fire'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While it can describe an ill-tempered person, it often carries a tone of admiration for someone's spirit, energy, or defiance, especially in the aircraft sense.
It's possible but less common. The term has historically been applied more often to women and girls. For men, terms like 'firebrand' or 'hothead' are more typical.
Referring to the British Supermarine Spitfire aircraft of WWII, especially in historical, museum, or aviation enthusiast contexts.
It is informal when describing a person. It is a standard technical/historical term when referring to the aircraft.
A person, typically a woman or girl, who has a quick, fiery, and easily provoked temper.
Spitfire: in British English it is pronounced /ˈspɪtfaɪə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈspɪtfaɪr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine someone so angry they seem to spit fire when they speak. Or picture the iconic WWII plane 'spitting' machine-gun fire.
Conceptual Metaphor
ANGER IS FIRE / A PERSON IS A WEAPON (fiery, shooting, dangerous).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'spitfire' MOST likely to be used positively?