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lively

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adjective

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective lively contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of lively are animated, gay, sprightly, and vivacious. While all these words mean "keenly alive and spirited," lively suggests briskness, alertness, or energy.

a lively debate on the issues

In what contexts can animated take the place of lively?

The synonyms animated and lively are sometimes interchangeable, but animated applies to what is spirited and active.

an animated discussion of current events

When could gay be used to replace lively?

The meanings of gay and lively largely overlap; however, gay stresses complete freedom from care and overflowing spirits.

the gay spirit of Paris in the 1920s

When can sprightly be used instead of lively?

The words sprightly and lively are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sprightly suggests lightness and spirited vigor of manner or wit.

a tuneful, sprightly musical

When is it sensible to use vivacious instead of lively?

Although the words vivacious and lively have much in common, vivacious suggests an activeness of gesture and wit, often playful or alluring.

a vivacious party host

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of lively
Adjective
The journey promises to be lively, with traditional ceilidhs on board and evening entertainment in the Observation Car. Everett Potter, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025 The user's tale went on to generate a lively conversation in the comments section of the post. Kirsty Hatcher, People.com, 8 May 2025 Domingo, one of the earliest VIP arrivals at the party, was showing off his style on the lane, ball in hand, as the lively room continued to fill up. Kristen Tauer, Footwear News, 5 May 2025 The protests were colorful, lively affairs — with students kitted out appropriately. Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 3 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for lively
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lively
Adjective
  • That motion can help build strength that translates over to tons of daily tasks, like walking an energetic dog or opening a heavy door, to name a few.
    Christa Sgobba, SELF, 12 May 2025
  • The collection combines breathable, comfortable fabrics with a bold, energetic color palette—perfect for those constantly on the go.
    Essence, Essence, 9 May 2025
Adjective
  • It was developed as a major family entertainment property targeting both Spanish-speaking and international markets, with a vibrant ensemble cast led by Joaquín Reyes and Arturo Valls.
    Jamie Lang, Variety, 14 May 2025
  • The Reposado expression is aged in oak barrels, balancing the vibrant agave flavors with subtle wood influences.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • The newcomer enrolled in tap classes, and trained fastidiously with associate choreographer Rachelle Rak, figuring out how an animated siren might walk and stand.
    Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 23 May 2025
  • This is her opportunity to step up into a more prominent role, and the quiet ONO is disappearing in favor of this, more animated and aggressive version.
    Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 18 May 2025
Adjective
  • April Kiser, a spokesperson for Arkansas State Parks, said Memorial Day weekend is a particularly busy time for state parks.
    Amir Mahmoud, Arkansas Online, 23 May 2025
  • This one is too busy careening all over the tonal map for any of that.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 22 May 2025
Adjective
  • Moreover, for active and retired military members, a 10% military discount is available year-round.
    Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 26 May 2025
  • Its mission is to empower voters and defend democracy through active engagement, education and advocacy.
    Deb Harvell, Arkansas Online, 25 May 2025
Adjective
  • Such seemingly minor biographical details are what animate L’Enchanteur, which was born in 2012 after Soull and Dynasty merged their independent labels—Alkhemi9 and BRZÉ, respectively.
    Thessaly La Force, Vogue, 22 Apr. 2025
  • Users do have creative freedom — freedom to learn to draw, animate, write, score, or direct their own projects.
    Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 27 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • In a thriving and competitive women's division, the consistent presence of a talent like Bliss would undoubtedly provide a substantial boost, injecting another layer of depth, star power, and compelling storylines into the roster.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Economic Growth: Promoting policies that attract businesses, support local entrepreneurship, and ensure access to opportunities for all residents, contributing to a thriving and sustainable Fort Worth economy.
    Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The chippies, pubs and merchandise stalls on Goodison Road are doing brisk business, as fans arrive extra early to soak up precious last memories.
    Greg O'Keeffe, New York Times, 14 May 2025
  • Adames began jogging around the bases, but his trot soon slowed into a brisk walk.
    Justice delos Santos, Mercury News, 9 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Lively.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lively. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on lively

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