lifeless

adjective

life·​less ˈlīf-ləs How to pronounce lifeless (audio)
Synonyms of lifelessnext
: having no life:
a
: dead
b
c
: lacking qualities expressive of life and vigor : insipid
d
: destitute of living beings
lifelessly adverb
lifelessness noun

Examples of lifeless in a Sentence

a cold and lifeless landscape The book's plot was lifeless and predictable.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Except this version of Miami does not feel completely lifeless offensively anymore in a 9-3 loss. Miami Herald, 22 May 2026 Villa were booed off, having lost 2-1, but more so due to the lifeless display, which cranked up the anxiety for the return tie. Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 21 May 2026 The films themselves, however, are lifeless. Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 19 May 2026 The lifeless animal was discovered and reported by a group of five hunters, led by Sung-ki (Zo In-sung), by far the savviest of the bunch. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 17 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for lifeless

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lifeless was before the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Lifeless.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lifeless. Accessed 27 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

lifeless

adjective
life·​less ˈlī-fləs How to pronounce lifeless (audio)
: having no life
lifelessly adverb
lifelessness noun

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