Live·ly a. [Compar. Livelier superl. Liveliest.]
1. Endowed with or manifesting life; living.
Chaplets of gold and silver resembling lively flowers and leaves. --Holland.
2. Brisk; vivacious; active; as, a lively youth.
But wherefore comes old Manoa in such haste,
With youthful steps ? Much livelier than erewhile
He seems. --Milton.
3. Gay; airy; animated; spirited.
From grave to gay, from lively to severe. --Pope.
4. Representing life; lifelike. [Obs.]
I spied the lively picture of my father. --Massinger.
5. Bright; vivid; glowing; strong; vigorous.
The colors of the prism are manifestly more full, intense, and lively that those of natural bodies. --Sir I. Newton.
His faith must be not only living, but lively too. --South.
Lively stones Script., saints, as being quickened by the Spirit, and active in holiness.
Syn: -- Brisk; vigorous; quick; nimble; smart; active; alert; sprightly; animated; spirited; prompt; earnest; strong; energetic; vivid; vivacious; blithe; gleeful; airy; gay; jocund.