Alacrity

Monday, September 29, 2025
Word of the Day

What is Alacrity?

noun
Brisk and cheerful readiness.

Pronunciation

US pronunciation: /əˈlæk.rə.ti/
UK pronunciation: /əˈlæk.rɪ.ti/
Slow pronunciation: uh-LACK-ri-tee

Meaning Explained

Alacrity conveys eager willingness combined with quick action.

Why This Word?

Chosen to emphasize the energy of saying “yes” with speed and joy.

Examples of Use

Here's how this word appears in everyday language:

  • He responded to the challenge with alacrity.
  • They volunteered with alacrity.
  • The team tackled the project with alacrity.

Word Origins

Latin alacritas “liveliness, eagerness”

From alacer “cheerful, brisk.”

First appearance in English: 15th century

Word Family

Related forms of this word:

  • Adjective: alacritous

    She gave an alacritous nod.

  • Noun: eagerness

    He showed eagerness to learn.

  • Adjective: brisk

    He gave a brisk reply.

Around the World

How this word appears in other languages:

  • Spanish: presteza
  • French: empressement
  • German: Bereitwilligkeit
  • Italian: prontezza
  • Portuguese: presteza

If you Already Know This Word

If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:

Eagerness

Common term; alacrity is formal.

Readiness

Readiness is neutral; alacrity is joyful.

Promptness

Promptness is speed; alacrity adds cheerfulness.

Fun Facts

  • Though rare in speech, “alacrity” is common in formal writing.
  • Latin root *alacer* also gives “alacritous,” though very rare.

Cultural Usage

  • Alacrity appears in Shakespeare’s plays to describe eager action.
  • Managers prize employees who act with alacrity.

Common Mistakes

Sometimes confused with “acridity”; unrelated.

Micro Story

She accepted the invitation with alacrity.