How Do You Spell FITFUL?

Pronunciation: [fˈɪtfə͡l] (IPA)

The word "fitful" (/'fɪtfʊl/) means inconsistent or irregular. Interestingly, the pronunciation and spelling of this word are closely related, with the letter "i" representing the short "i" sound in IPA phonetics (/ɪ/) and the letter "f" representing the voiceless labiodental fricative sound (/f/). The letters "t" and "l" are pronounced distinctly with a stop and lateral sound, respectively. So, the word "fitful" is spelled in a way that accurately represents its pronunciation in English.

FITFUL Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "fitful" is an adjective that describes something occurring or happening irregularly, intermittently, or in an erratic manner. It can refer to actions, movements, or patterns that lack consistency, continuity, or stability.

    In the context of human behavior or activities, "fitful" denotes sporadic or unpredictable actions that occur in brief bursts or episodes, with pauses or interruptions between them. For example, someone may experience fitful sleep, characterized by disturbed or uneven periods of rest with frequent awakenings throughout the night.

    When describing natural phenomena, such as weather patterns, "fitful" indicates abrupt changes or irregular shifts. It suggests that weather conditions fluctuate unexpectedly, alternating between calm and turbulent episodes, or switching abruptly between different states.

    "Fitful" can also refer to emotions or moods that fluctuate rapidly or unpredictably. It implies a lack of steadiness or stability in one's emotional state, where feelings tend to vacillate in intensity or direction.

    Overall, "fitful" signifies a lack of regularity, consistency, or predictability in various aspects of life. It implies an irregular or uneven nature, suggesting actions, movements, patterns, or behaviors that occur in a sporadic, erratic, or fragmented manner.

  2. Marked by sudden impulses or starts.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for FITFUL

Etymology of FITFUL

The word "fitful" is derived from the Middle English "fitfulle", which originated from the Old English word "fȳtful", meaning "capricious", "changeable", or "rebellious". It derives from "fȳt", meaning a "quarrel" or "a sudden outburst". The term "fitful" came to mean "occurring irregularly" or "in bursts", reflecting the sense of sudden and unpredictable actions.

Similar spelling words for FITFUL

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