liveliness 1 of 3

lively

2 of 3

adverb

lively

3 of 3

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 liveliness
Adjective
The pink Tulip and lively green Fern colorways are as optimistic as the flora popping up in gardens. Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 16 Apr. 2025 Panelists had been carefully chosen and the moderators ensured lively debates took place. Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025 To introduce persimmon in a balanced way, Bassford recommends incorporating the color into decorative touches like wallpaper, upholstery, or bedding for a lively yet harmonious effect. Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Apr. 2025 His arm is really quick, and the fastball is lively, while his off-speed stuff wasn’t as sharp in this outing. Keith Law, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for liveliness
Recent Examples of Synonyms for liveliness
Noun
  • Sour cream: Complements the cream cheese base and adds some brightness and tang for a dynamic, fresh flavor.
    Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 28 Apr. 2025
  • Amidst such a torrent of fascist chaos, the brightness and backbone of Real Women Have Curves feel bracing.
    Sara Holdren, Vulture, 28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Mariah, an energetic publicity executive in Oregon also described herself as an introverted extrovert, had a passion for self-exploration and chose work different from everyone else in her family.
    Jessie Rosen, People.com, 3 May 2025
  • Rather than get stuck in or fooled by the appearance of things, this principle reminded us to sense their energetic underpinnings, such as clarity and intention.
    Ginny Whitelaw, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025
Adjective
  • This long-lasting hair color, enriched with macadamia nut oil, not only provides vibrant color but also nourishes your hair, keeping it moisturized and healthy-looking.
    Nora Colomer may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 2 May 2025
  • While one set of dancers move clockwise, another dances counterclockwise, resulting in a moving pattern of vibrant colors.
    Greta Cross, USA Today, 2 May 2025
Adjective
  • The Looney Tunes film, featuring Forte and John Cena opposite an animated Wile E. Coyote, became the most talked about movie in Hollywood in late 2023 when The Hollywood Reporter broke the news that Warner Bros. intended to scrap the movie as part of a $115 million writedown.
    Kirsten Chuba, HollywoodReporter, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Fox’s rollout includes return dates for animated series like Bob’s Burgers and Family Guy, as well as premieres for reality programs including MasterChef (returning for a 15th season dubbed Dynamic Duos) and unscripted newbie The Snake, hosted by comedian Jim Jefferies.
    Rebecca Luther, TVLine, 24 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • But some of America’s most popular parks also require reservations, particularly during their busy season: summer.
    Eve Chen, USA Today, 29 Apr. 2025
  • Emporium Selection Summer Gouda Assortment A good cheese ready in your fridge for guests, whether expected or not, can make a world of difference for a busy host.
    Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 29 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Commissioners cited a series of reasons for the vote, but one significant part of the discussion centered on how the town wants more stores, restaurants, health care or technology centers or even offices on the property as a way to build vibrancy.
    Don Stacom, Hartford Courant, 28 Mar. 2025
  • The preservation of our architectural heritage is not only a matter of maintaining our community’s identity but also plays a fundamental role in fostering economic growth and cultural vibrancy.
    Courier-News, Chicago Tribune, 20 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • In his new role, Jackson will oversee day-to-day operations of the foundation, advise on real-time policy and reform, expand active partnerships and the current network.
    Jem Aswad, Variety, 1 May 2025
  • The company’s global daily active uniques, or DAUq, jumped 31% year over year to 108.1 million in the first quarter.
    Jonathan Vanian, CNBC, 1 May 2025
Noun
  • America’s economic vitality may turn on upcoming tariffs.
    Laurent Belsie, Christian Science Monitor, 2 May 2025
  • This ancient celebration is a moment to honor Mother Nature’s colorful vitality, the fiery union of opposites and the sheer power of renewal.
    Valerie Mesa, People.com, 30 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Liveliness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/liveliness. Accessed 8 May. 2025.

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