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
  • On those nights, the moon will be at 40% brightness, which may interfere with viewing, according to the American Meteor Society.
    Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025
  • The lamp has a matte-gold finish, provides optimal brightness, and will look perfect on your work desk.
    Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 17 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The energy rises as the wrestler and the rapper take energetic strides and bounce to the ring.
    Shaheem Reid, Variety, 19 Apr. 2025
  • Our sun cycles through its pattern of energetic activity every 11 years, but the technology scientists use to observe is advancing at a faster pace.
    Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 17 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • As Fort Worth continues to grow, this area has the potential to become a vibrant hub in the heart of the city—accessible, scenic, and community-focused.
    Kate Marijolovic, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Apr. 2025
  • Stirred into no-bake cheesecake batter, vibrant ube jam delivers a sweet, nutty swirl that tempers the cheesecake’s tang.
    Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Apr. 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
  • Situated well above the bustle of Mykonos busiest towns, this one-bedroom suite offers a front-row seat to the golden hour.
    Bailey Berg, Architectural Digest, 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
  • Standing Together, but Standing Out Executives agreed that Watches and Wonders served as a statement of the industry’s vitality and vibrancy, with a need to express themselves to the right audience of collectors and enthusiasts.
    Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 17 Apr. 2025
  • The Launch of British Watchmakers’ Day To demonstrate the existence and vibrancy of the British watch sector, Audsley proposed one day per year where British watchmakers would release a special edition watch available exclusively on that date and at a special venue.
    Lilian Raji, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Redshirt freshman Kaleb Annett was the most active quarterback on the day, throwing for 77 yards and a touchdown on a 6-for-10 throwing performance.
    Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 20 Apr. 2025
  • The 1880s were the most active decade for U.S. hurricane landfalls on record.
    Doyle Rice, USA Today, 20 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Sometimes, the country was cast as a strong and imposing hero, with unparalleled economic vitality and military might.
    Stacie E. Goddard, Foreign Affairs, 22 Apr. 2025
  • As the science continues to evolve, one message grows louder: for those pursuing long-term vitality and resilience, quitting alcohol is not just wise.
    Jesse Pines, Forbes.com, 21 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Liveliness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/liveliness. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

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