What does vivid mean?
Vivid is an adjective describing something that is perceived with exceptional clarity, intensity, or lifelikeness. A vivid description or piece of imagery makes a scene, idea, or memory seem especially real and memorable. In reference to color or light, vivid emphasizes brightness, richness, and striking visual force. The word can also describe intense experiences or feelings, such as a vivid impression or vivid pain, although these uses are less frequent than the figurative and visual senses. Vivid is common in formal and informal English across British and American usage and often suggests more than mere visibility: it conveys immediacy and emotional or imaginative impact. Its usefulness lies in this combination of clarity and vividness, allowing writers and speakers to distinguish an ordinary account or scene from one that is exceptionally compelling. The word derives from Latin vividus, meaning alive or lively, which connects its visual force with the idea of being full of life.
adjectiveClearly and intensely perceived, especially in terms of color, light, imagery, or description. Figuratively, vivid describes something that is striking, lifelike, and capable of evoking a strong mental image or feeling.
- Producing a strong, clear, and lifelike impression through description, imagery, or memory.
- Very bright, intense, or striking, especially of color or light.
- Feeling or experiencing something in a particularly clear and intense way.
"She gave a vivid account of the storm, describing the thunder and flashes of lightning in vivid detail."
"The painting is famous for its vivid colors and striking portrayal of the human face."
"She has a vivid memory of the summer she spent by the lake."
The word vivid contains a secret link to life: it comes from Latin vividus, meaning alive or lively, and ultimately from the root vivere, “to live.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does vivid come from?
Vivid comes into English from Latin vividus, meaning “alive,” “lively,” or “bright,” derived from vivere, “to live.” Over time, the word developed from its original associations with life and brightness into the modern senses of intense color and clear, striking imagery. English cognates and related formations such as vivacious, vitality, and vivify reflect the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How vivid is actually used
Vivid is generally neutral in register and is valued for its combination of clarity and intensity. It is especially common in discussions of imagery, descriptions, memories, color, and light.