What does plucky mean?
Plucky is an adjective describing a person who shows courage, determination, and resilience, especially when facing danger, hardship, or uncertainty. It often carries an encouraging and slightly informal tone, suggesting someone who continues acting boldly despite difficult circumstances rather than someone who merely avoids risk. A person might be called plucky for standing up to a challenge, attempting a difficult task, or maintaining a positive attitude after a setback. The word can also describe collective qualities, as in “a plucky team,” and is sometimes used to praise the spirit of an undertaking itself. Although less common than brave or courageous in formal writing, plucky is memorable because it emphasizes energetic determination as well as fearlessness. It is especially useful when describing courage combined with persistence and a willingness to keep trying.
adjectivePlucky means brave and determined, especially when facing danger or difficulty. It can also suggest a cheerful, resilient attitude in the face of adversity.
- Brave and determined in the face of danger, hardship, or difficulty.
- Cheerfully resilient or undaunted, especially in an informal or encouraging context.
"The plucky young team refused to give up despite being well behind."
"Her plucky attempt to retrieve the ball from the storm impressed everyone."
"They were plucky in the face of delays, finishing the project without complaining."
A plucky person may not have the easiest path, but they have the spirit to keep going anyway.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does plucky come from?
The adjective plucky was formed in the early 19th century from pluck, meaning courage or spirit, with the suffix -y. The noun pluck is an older word derived from Middle English plucked or plucken, associated with pulling or snatching, but it had developed the sense of courage and resolve. The expression “show one's pluck” reflected this established meaning of bravery and determination. The adjective therefore emphasizes the spirited, resolute quality associated with pluck.
Related word forms
How plucky is actually used
Usually informal or literary rather than strictly formal. It conveys a positive, sympathetic sense of courage and perseverance, often with a hint of optimism.
Easily confused with plucky
Pluck is a verb meaning to pull or remove something with a sharp movement, whereas plucky is an adjective describing someone who is brave and determined.