What does vigor mean?
Vigor is a noun meaning strength, vitality, and energetic force. It can describe a person's physical condition, as in someone who approaches a difficult task with vigor, or the character of an action or piece of expression, as when a debate is conducted with intellectual vigor. The word is commonly associated with health, resilience, energy, and determination, and it often carries a favorable, formal tone. In British English it is generally spelled "vigour," while American English uses "vigor." Although a plural form, "vigors," exists, the word is much more natural as an uncountable noun. Vigor is especially useful when the intended idea is more than simple strength: it conveys active, sustained vitality rather than merely physical power.
nounVigor means physical or mental strength, vitality, and energy. It can also refer to the force or intensity with which an action, movement, or style of expression is performed.
- Physical or mental strength, vitality, and energy.
- Force, intensity, or vitality of movement, expression, or argument.
"She approached the challenge with renewed vigor and determination."
"The old tree displayed surprising vigor, putting out new leaves after the severe winter."
"The lawyer challenged the decision with intellectual vigor and precision."
The plural is rare and literary; in ordinary use, vigor functions as an uncountable noun.
"The speech drew on the vigors of a disciplined and hopeful life."
Vigor comes from Latin vigor, meaning strength or vitality: the same root that gives us vigorous and vitality.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does vigor come from?
Vigor entered English from the Latin noun vigor, meaning "strength" or "energy." Its English use dates from the early 17th century, and it developed further forms such as the adjective "vigorous" and the adverb "vigorously." The spelling "vigour" became especially associated with British English, while "vigor" is standard in American English.
Related word forms
How vigor is actually used
Vigor is generally formal and often approving, especially when describing physical vitality, energetic action, or forceful expression. In British English, "vigour" is the standard spelling. It is normally used as an uncountable noun, although the plural "vigors" is possible in formal or literary contexts.
Easily confused with vigor
Vigor means strength, energy, or vitality, whereas rigor means strictness, severity, or hardship.