pert
Pert (adjective) means Cheeky or impudent in a lively, playful way, especially of a child or younger person. Example: “The waitress gave a pert reply that made the whole table laugh.”
How to use pert
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSassy and self-assured, sometimes bordering on cheeky; also used to describe something neatly perky in shape.
Fairly dated/literary in the "cheeky" sense, more common today describing physical shape.
Word forms
perter comparative, perted past tense, perts plural, perts singular, pertest superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The waitress gave a _____ reply that made the whole table laugh.
Etymology
From Middle English pert, a shortened form of apert ("open, evident"), ultimately from Latin apertus.
Rhymes for pert
See all rhymes for pert →Frequently asked questions
What does “pert” mean?
The word “pert” means cheeky or impudent in a lively, playful way, especially of a child or younger person. In plain terms, sassy and self-assured, sometimes bordering on cheeky; also used to describe something neatly perky in shape.
How do you pronounce “pert”?
“Pert” is pronounced purt (/pɝt/ in IPA).
How do you use “pert” in a sentence?
Here is “pert” used in a sentence: “The waitress gave a pert reply that made the whole table laugh.”
What part of speech is “pert”?
“Pert” is an adjective.
Where does the word “pert” come from?
The word “pert” comes from Latin. From Middle English pert, a shortened form of apert ("open, evident"), ultimately from Latin apertus.
How many meanings does “pert” have?
“Pert” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: cheeky or impudent in a lively, playful way, especially of a child or younger person.