still life

noun

plural still lifes
1
: a picture consisting predominantly of inanimate objects
2
: the category of graphic arts concerned with inanimate subject matter

Examples of still life in a Sentence

an exhibit of still lifes She prefers portraiture to still life.
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.
Houston’s pieces often echo the still life desserts painted by Dutch master Jan Davidsz de Heem, which were set on lavish tables to be enjoyed by many. Brendan Ruberry, semafor.com, 19 Aug. 2025 Alongside the marquee names are her quieter images—landscapes, interiors and still lifes—subjects that emerged naturally from scouting portrait locations. Y-Jean Mun-Delsalle, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2025 That series combines portraits of women lifted from Hmong dating websites with Her’s own portraits of Hmong women and still lifes of flowers, exploring floral motifs as a symbol of Hmong womanhood and interrogating ideas of gender and desire in a community grappling with entrenched patriarchy. Lisa Wong MacAbasco, Vogue, 4 Aug. 2025 The drawings, which range from portraits and still lifes to urban landscapes and fleeting moments, reflect Dylan’s sharp observational eye. Anna Tingley, Variety, 25 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for still life

Word History

First Known Use

1695, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of still life was in 1695

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Cite this Entry

“Still life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/still%20life. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

still life

noun
plural still lifes
: a picture of an arrangement of objects
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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