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Definition of fitfully

fitfully

/ˈfɪt.fə.li/
fit · ful · ly
Adjective:fitful
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fitfully Lexical Profile

fitfully Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In an irregular, unsteady, or intermittent manner, marked by sudden bursts of activity followed by periods of stillness; restlessly.

Example

"The sick child slept fitfully throughout the night, tossing and turning whenever the fever spiked."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

The word 'fitfully' derives from the noun 'fit' in the sense of a sudden paroxysm or spasm, rather than the adjective 'fit' meaning healthy or suitable; it frequently modifies verbs of sleeping, breathing, or shining to indicate restless interruption.

• Nearby Words

fistlike
fit
fitful
fitfully
fitly
fitment
fitness

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 17th century from 'fitful' and the suffix '-ly', tracing back to Old English 'fitt', which originally meant a struggle, conflict, or sudden bout of painful activity.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Fitfully. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/fitfully
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