brisk

Etymology

Uncertain; probably a collateral form of brusque, but compare Irish briosc, Scottish Gaelic brisg, Welsh brwysg.

adj

1. Full of liveliness and activity; characterized by quickness of motion or action.
   We took a brisk walk yesterday.
   On such occasions he would remark-- "Shaving may add an air that's somewhat brisker, For dignity, commend me to the whisker." 1918, Norman Lindsay, The Magic Pudding, Sydney: Angus and Robertson, page 10
   Ba, who has been linked with a January move to Arsenal, should have rewarded their brisk start with the opening goal in the 16th minute. December 29, 2012, Paul Doyle, “Arsenal's Theo Walcott hits hat-trick in thrilling victory over Newcastle”, in The Guardian
2. Full of spirit of life; effervescing.
3. (archaic) Sparkling; fizzy.
   brisk cider
4. Stimulating or invigorating.
   This morning was a brisk fall day. It wasn't cold enough for frost, but you wanted to keep moving.
   Why, if 'tis dancing you would be, / There's brisker pipes than poetry. 1896, A. E. Housman, “Terence, this is stupid stuff”, in A Shropshire Lad
5. Abrupt, curt in one's manner or in relation to others.

verb

1. (transitive, intransitive, often with "up") To make or become lively; to enliven; to animate.