Definitions

fitful

[fit-fuhl] / ˈfɪt fəl /

ADJECTIVE

irregular, sporadic

Synonyms

STRONGEST

desultory intermittent periodic spotty

WEAK

bits and pieces broken capricious catchy changeable disturbed erratic flickering fluctuating haphazard herky-jerky hit-or-miss impulsive inconstant interrupted on-again-off-again random recurrent restive restless shifting spasmodic spastic unstable variable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

constant continual regular

WEAK

continuous even undisturbed unvarying

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

My entry into the world of wearable fitness, as with much new technology, was grudging, fitful and ultimately all consuming.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 29, 2026

As treatment progresses, if the once fitful sleeper finds they’re sleeping longer and more easily, they extend their time in bed to match their newfound sleep ability.

From Slate • Jul. 19, 2025

We dressed for the day, then returned to bed for a couple of hours of fitful sleep, ready to go when we needed to.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 28, 2025

Over time, the late night TV host becomes your best friend, or a figure that haunts your fitful dreams.

From New York Times • Mar. 21, 2024

At night, it cast its long shadow over what fitful sleep I was able to get.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt

Vocabulary lists containing fitful

The Vocabulary.com Top 1000

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Grade 12, List 2

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