Fitful (Adjective)
Meaning 1
Intermittently stopping and starting; "fitful (or interrupted) sleep"; "off-and-on static".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- The patient's fitful breathing was a cause for concern among the hospital staff.
- The firework display ended with a fitful burst of sparks that fizzled out quickly.
- The old radio emitted a fitful stream of static-filled music that was barely listenable.
- After a big meal, the athlete experienced a fitful mix of fatigue and restless energy.
- The bus ride was marked by fitful periods of conversation punctuated by awkward silences.
Synonyms
Related Words
Meaning 2
Occurring in spells and often abruptly; "fitful bursts of energy"; "spasmodic rifle fire".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- The child's fitful sleep was marked by frequent wakings and nightmares.
- The team's fitful offense was unable to score consistently throughout the game.
- The old car's engine coughed and sputtered, producing fitful bursts of power.
- The patient's fitful recovery was set back by a sudden relapse of the illness.
- The firework exploded in fitful flashes of color across the night sky.