Main Entry: vi·tal

Pronunciation: \ˈvī-t^əl\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English, from Latin vitalis of life, from vita life; akin to Latin vivere to live — more at quick

Date: 14th century

1 a : existing as a manifestation of life b : concerned with or necessary to the maintenance of life <vital organs> <blood and other vital fluids>
2 : full of life and vigor : animated
3 : characteristic of life or living beings
4 a : fundamentally concerned with or affecting life or living beings: as (1) : tending to renew or refresh the living : invigorating (2) : destructive to life : mortal b : of the utmost importance <a vital clue> <vital resources>
5 : recording data relating to lives
6 : of, relating to, or constituting the staining of living tissues

synonyms see essential

— vi·tal·ly \-t^əl-ē\ adverb