SPRIGHTFUL, adjective [This word seems to be formed from the root of sprag, a local word, pronounced in America spry. It belongs to the family of spring and sprig.] Lively; brisk; nimble; vigorous; gay. Spoke like a sprightful noble gentleman. Steeds sprightful as the light. [This word is little used in America. We use sprightly in the same sense.]
Source: Webster's 1828 American Dictionary ↗ · public-domain · returned verbatim, no AI