from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Spunk \Spunk\ (sp[u^][ng]k), n. [Gael. spong, or Ir. sponc,
tinder, sponge; cf. AS. sponge a sponge (L. spongia), sp[=o]n
a chip. Cf. {Sponge}, {Punk}.] [Written also {sponk}.]
1. Wood that readily takes fire; touchwood; also, a kind of
tinder made from a species of fungus; punk; amadou. --Sir
T. Browne.
[1913 Webster]
2. An inflammable temper; spirit; mettle; pluck; as, a man of
spunk. [Colloq.]
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A lawless and dangerous set, men of spunk, and
spirit, and power, both of mind and body. --Prof.
Wilson.
[1913 Webster]