- pert
- c.1300 (implied in pertly), "evident, unconcealed," aphetic form of apert "open, frank," from O.Fr. apert, from L. apertus, pp. of aperire "to open" (see overt). Sense of "saucy, bold" first recorded late 14c. Less pejorative meaning "lively, brisk, in good spirits" (c.1500) survives in U.S. dial. peart (with M.E. alternative spelling).