1. a person, especially a woman or girl, who has a fiery temper and speaks angrily or sharply
Usage: informal
2. a British fighter aircraft used during World War II
Usage: historical; military

Examples

• The little spitfire defended her younger brother from the bullies.
• She’s a real spitfire when someone criticizes her work.
• My grandmother was quite a spitfire in her youth.
• The Spitfire was crucial in winning the Battle of Britain.
• He collected model Spitfires from World War II.
• Don’t underestimate her – she may be small, but she’s a spitfire.