vitality

noun

vi·​tal·​i·​ty vī-ˈta-lə-tē How to pronounce vitality (audio)
plural vitalities
Synonyms of vitalitynext
1
a
: lively and animated character
b
: power of enduring
2
a
: the peculiarity distinguishing the living from the nonliving
b
: capacity to live and develop
also : physical or mental vigor especially when highly developed

Examples of vitality in a Sentence

Her prose is full of vitality. These scandals could threaten the vitality of the sport. the economic vitality of our cities
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.
At the same time, small businesses face increasing pressure from higher rents and operating costs, threatening the character and economic vitality of our neighborhoods. John McCann, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 May 2026 For a more hands-on wellness experience, Zero George partners with Longevity Club, which offers individualized health consultations, Pilates, yoga, personal training, small group fitness classes, and holistic care, designed to support balance, resilience, and overall vitality. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026 Irises are a symbol of courage and hope—and Van Gogh’s masterpiece evokes vitality, decay, and the cycle of life itself. Margaux Anbouba, Vogue, 4 May 2026 Tourism businesses also affect the vitality of the places that underwrite their profits, and these profit-seeking ventures vary widely in terms of their self-awareness and willingness to ensure that their operations do more good than harm. CBS News, 1 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for vitality

Word History

First Known Use

1592, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Time Traveler
The first known use of vitality was in 1592

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vitality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vitality. Accessed 11 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

vitality

noun
vi·​tal·​i·​ty vī-ˈtal-ət-ē How to pronounce vitality (audio)
plural vitalities
1
a
: the property by which the living can be separated from the nonliving : life
b
: capacity to live and develop
2
: energy of mind or body
3
a
: the ability to last
b
: lively and animated spirit

Medical Definition

vitality

noun
vi·​tal·​i·​ty vī-ˈtal-ət-ē How to pronounce vitality (audio)
plural vitalities
1
: the peculiarity distinguishing the living from the nonliving
2
: capacity to live and develop
also : physical or mental vigor especially when highly developed

More from Merriam-Webster on vitality

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster