Definitions

lively

[lahyv-lee] / ˈlaɪv li /

ADJECTIVE

energetic, active, busy

Synonyms

STRONGEST

animated bright buoyant bustling cheerful enjoyable entertaining festive frisky nimble peppy provocative refreshing spirited stimulating vigorous

WEAK

agile alert animate astir blithe blithesome bouncy brisk buzzing chipper chirpy complex dashing driving effervescent enterprising frolicsome full of pep gay go-go happy hyper industrious involved jocund jumping keen merry perky pert quick rousing snappy sparkling sprightly spry stirring vivacious zippy

Antonyms

STRONGEST

apathetic depressed down dull gloomy heavy inactive lethargic sad somber unhappy unpleasant

WEAK

dispirited lifeless sleepy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He solidified his name in television with “Cheers,” co-creating the lively Boston travern “where everybody knows your name” with Glen and Les Charles.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 19, 2026

Madueke was lively throughout, winning an early penalty when he was quicker to the ball than the labouring Luke Modric.

From BBC • Jun. 18, 2026

And there was a lively debate in the BBC studio following Canada's 1-1 draw with Bosnia-Herzegovina, a result that ensured the co-hosts avoided defeat for the first time in seven World Cup matches.

From BBC • Jun. 12, 2026

The author’s historical range is formidable, with details giving what might have been a dry revisionist argument the texture of lively narrative history.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

And with the lively music in the background, it feels like a party.

From "Zara’s Rules for Record-Breaking Fun" by Hena Khan

Vocabulary lists containing lively

Mr. Popper’s Penguins

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

List 2

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"One Crazy Summer" by Rita Williams-Garcia, List 2

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!