vigor

/ˈvɪɡər/ · VIG-urnoun

Physical or mental strength, energy, vitality, and forcefulness.

Use vigor to express this relationship precisely: physical or mental strength, energy, vitality, and forcefulness.

What vigor Really Means

The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.

1

Core meaning

Physical or mental strength, energy, vitality, and forcefulness.

Example

The seedlings returned with renewed vigor after the rain.

2

Common noun frame

Use this noun in a complete noun phrase, adding the complement that identifies what it refers to when needed.

Example

She defended the proposal with vigor.

3

Analytical distinction

Choose it when this exact concept matters; a related term may describe its cause, evidence, or opposite instead.

Example

Regular exercise restored his strength and vigor.

Use vigor Naturally

Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.

The seedlings returned with renewed vigor after the rain.

She defended the proposal with vigor.

Regular exercise restored his strength and vigor.

Precision Matters

Vigor overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.

vigor

Means physical or mental strength, energy, vitality, and forcefulness.

vs.
torpid

Means inactive, sluggish, or lacking physical or mental energy.

vigor

Means physical or mental strength, energy, vitality, and forcefulness.

vs.
morose

Means sullen, gloomy, withdrawn, and ill-tempered.

vigor

Means physical or mental strength, energy, vitality, and forcefulness.

vs.
alacrity

Means cheerful, prompt, and energetic willingness to act or respond.

vigor

Means physical or mental strength, energy, vitality, and forcefulness.

vs.
animated

Means lively, energetic, spirited, and full of visible interest or excitement.

Test vigor in Context

Their growth shows healthy energy and vitality.

1

After irrigation resumed, the plants grew with remarkable ___.

Prepared byFirst Academy
Editorial responsibilityFirst Academy Academic Team
Updated3 August 2026
Selection and reviewRead our methodology