1. occurring in irregular bursts or intervals; not continuous or steady

Examples

• She had a fitful night’s sleep, waking up every few hours.
• The patient’s breathing was fitful and labored.
• Progress on the project has been fitful due to budget constraints.
• The old engine made fitful attempts to start in the cold weather.
• His fitful attention made it difficult for him to follow the lecture.
• The wind blew in fitful gusts throughout the afternoon.