WordGarden.iolively
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈaɪvli/
US
- /ˈlaɪvli/
Meanings
Adjective
full of energy, animation, or vivid engaging character
Beyond the definition
Imagine walking into a room filled with music, talk, and movement. Everything feels bright and full of energy. That is what "lively" means. It often describes people, places, events, or conversations that feel active, cheerful, and interesting. A lively child may ask many questions and run around with excitement. A lively party has people talking, laughing, and dancing. A lively discussion is not dull or quiet; it has strong interest and lots of ideas moving back and forth.
The word "lively" gives the feeling of energy, movement, and life. It is often used for something that is active in a pleasant, exciting, or interesting way. When something is lively, it does not feel flat, dull, or sleepy. It feels awake and full of spirit.
You can use "lively" for people. A lively person may speak with energy, move quickly, laugh easily, and make a group feel more active. You can also use it for places and events. A lively street has people walking around, shops open, and sounds all around. A lively party or festival is full of fun, music, and conversation. Music can be lively too, especially when it has a quick beat and makes people want to move.
"Lively" also works for less physical things. A lively discussion is full of ideas and strong interest. A lively imagination produces many fresh thoughts and pictures. In some contexts, colors can be called lively when they look bright and full of energy.
Most of the time, "lively" has a positive feeling. It suggests that the energy is enjoyable, not chaotic or unpleasant. In short, it describes someone or something that feels full of life, active, and engaging.
Examples
- 1
Children
The children were lively after lunch, so the teacher took them outside.
- 2
Cafe atmosphere
The cafe is usually lively on Friday nights.
- 3
Group discussion
We had a lively discussion about where to go on holiday.
- Phraselively discussion
an active, interesting discussion, often with many opinions
- 4
Music
The band played lively music, and everyone started dancing.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Clothing
She wore a lively green scarf with her black coat.
- Phraselively colors
bright and fresh-looking
- 6
Writing style
His lively writing makes even simple events feel exciting.
- 7
Sales activity
Sales were lively in the first hour after the new phone went on sale.
- Phraselively sales
many sales happening quickly
See also
Forms and spellings
3 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- livelyadjective
Forms
- liveliercomparativeadjective
- liveliestsuperlativeadjective