English Dictionary
Definition of “jaunty”
jaunty (ˈdʒɔːntɪ
)
Definitions
adjective
- sprightly, self-confident, and cheerful; brisk ⇒
a jaunty step
- smart; trim ⇒
a jaunty hat
Alternative Forms
ˈjauntily adverb ˈjauntiness noun Word Origin
C17: from French gentil noble; see genteel
Synonyms
View thesaurus entry
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sprightly,
buoyant,
carefree,
high-spirited,
gay,
lively,
airy,
breezy,
perky,
sparky,
self-confident,
Usage examples
Miss Jessel I'm only trying to get the facts straight -- A jaunty smile -- Look at it this way, perhaps.
Sean Thomas, THE CHEEK PERFORATION DANCE (2002)She has her male posturing down to a jaunty jiggle of the hip while springing a leak on stage.
Spiked (2003)Even the jaunty , self-confident Adler has had moments of self doubt in the face of the disdain of his peers.
Courier, Sunday Mail (2005)His school pals Lola and Stella Schnabel are by his jaunty side at all times.
Times, Sunday Times (2002)McEnroe was the general, nursing Stich through the tense moments with a jaunty , but deadly serious intensity.
Barrett, J (ed), ITF World of Tennis (1993)
