What does life mean?
Life is one of the most fundamental English nouns, denoting the state of being alive as well as the continuing existence of a person, animal, plant, or organization. Its meaning shifts with context: it can refer to a lifetime, to living beings collectively, or to the vitality and character of a person or place. Phrases such as 'save a life,' 'risk one's life,' and 'a life sentence' show its frequent association with survival, danger, duration, and moral consequence. In literary or religious contexts, life may also suggest spiritual renewal, meaning, or existence beyond physical death. Although closely related to the verb 'live,' life is a noun and can express both a condition and a period of existence. Its broad range of uses makes it essential in discussions of biology, personal experience, society, culture, and philosophy.
nounThe state of being alive, or the continuing existence of a person or thing. It can also refer to the period during which someone is alive, the living organisms collectively, or the energy and vitality of a place, person, or experience.
- The state of being alive, especially the continued existence of a person.
- The period during which a person or organism is alive.
- Living organisms considered collectively.
- The energy, vitality, or activity of a person, place, or thing.
- The world or human experience regarded as a whole.
"She has led a remarkable life devoted to helping others."
"The treatment gave her a new lease on life."
"Rural life is quieter than life in the city."
"He risked his life to rescue the passengers."
The plural is used for separate people or organisms, for different lifetimes, and for the lives of a group or community.
"The lives of ordinary people were transformed by the invention."
Life is the one possession that can be spent, but never stored for later.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does life come from?
The English word descends from Old English lif, meaning 'living' or 'life,' and ultimately from Proto-Germanic *lībiz, associated with the same root that produced words such as 'live' and 'lively.' It has long been used both for the state of being alive and for the duration of a person's existence. Related forms in other Germanic languages reflect the same ancient root.
Related word forms
How life is actually used
The word is highly versatile and neutral in register. In expressions such as 'the life of the party,' it conveys liveliness and enjoyment; in 'life expectancy,' it refers to a measurable lifespan; and in religious contexts it can refer to spiritual vitality or everlasting existence.
Easily confused with life
Life is a noun referring to existence or the experience of being alive, whereas live is usually a verb meaning to be alive or to broadcast in real time.