live wire

noun

: an alert, active, or aggressive person
live-wire adjective

Examples of live wire in a Sentence

She's a real live wire. the babysitter will have her hands full with those two little live wires
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.
On the other hand, the Cracker Barrel debacle touched so many live wires of American politics that the story was simply irresistible. Graham Hillard, The Washington Examiner, 5 Sep. 2025 New to the group to fill the vacancy is Joyce (Imrie), a delightful live wire eager to participate. Pete Hammond, Deadline, 26 Aug. 2025 Still, this is a two-time All-Star whose right arm remains a live wire. Zach Pressnell, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 July 2025 Moreover, the live wire demonstrated leadership qualities throughout the 17-day tournament. Henry Flynn, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for live wire

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of live wire was in 1881

Cite this Entry

“Live wire.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/live%20wire. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

live wire

noun
: an alert, active, or forceful person
live-wire adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on live wire

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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