life
1life
noun \ˈlīf\ plural lives\ˈlīvz\
Definition of LIFE
1
a : the quality that distinguishes a vital and functional being from a dead body b : a principle or force that is considered to underlie the distinctive quality of animate beings c : an organismic state characterized by capacity for metabolism, growth, reaction to stimuli, and reproduction
2
a : the sequence of physical and mental experiences that make up the existence of an individual b : one or more aspects of the process of living <sex life of the frog>
3
: biography 1
4
: spiritual existence transcending physical death
5
a : the period from birth to death b : a specific phase of earthly existence <adult life> c : the period from an event until death <a judge appointed for life> d : a sentence of imprisonment for the remainder of a convict's life
6
: a way or manner of living
7
8
: a vital or living being; specifically : person <many lives were lost in the disaster>
9
: an animating and shaping force or principle
11
: the form or pattern of something existing in reality <painted from life>
12
: the period of duration, usefulness, or popularity of something <the expected life of the batteries>
13
: the period of existence (as of a subatomic particle) — compare half-life
14
: a property (as resilience or elasticity) of an inanimate substance or object resembling the animate quality of a living being
15
: living beings (as of a particular kind or environment) <forest life>
16
a : human activities b : animate activity and movement <stirrings of life> c : the activities of a given sphere, area, or time <the political life of the country>
17
: one providing interest and vigor <life of the party>
18
: an opportunity for continued viability <gave the patient a new life>
19
capitalized Christian Science : god 1b
20
: something resembling animate life <a grant saved the project's life>
Examples of LIFE
- He believes that God gives life to all creatures.
- She was happy and healthy for most of her life.
- The people in her family tend to have long lives.
- I've known her all my life.
- He is nearing the end of his life.
- People can expect to change jobs several times in their life .
- They've been waiting their whole life for an opportunity like this.
- What do you really want out of life?
- All this paperwork has made life much more difficult.
- The details of everyday life can be fascinating.
Origin of LIFE
Middle English lif, from Old English līf; akin to Old English libban to live — more at live
First Known Use: before 12th century
Related to LIFE
Related Words: jiva; autobiography; hagiography; psychobiography; pathography, tell-all; chronicle, history, past, story; obituary; character sketch, profile
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