lively
UK: ˈlaɪvli | US: ˈlaɪvli
adj. full of life and energy; vigorous
adj. vivid or bright in appearance
adj. (of a place or event) bustling with activity
lively = live<life> + ly<adjective suffix>
- live (from Old English līf "life") → retains the core meaning of vitality or existence.
- ly (from Old English -līc "having the qualities of") → a suffix forming adjectives, often indicating resemblance or characteristic.
Etymology Origin:
The word "lively" emerged in Middle English (as lifly), combining live (life) with the adjectival suffix -ly. Originally, it described things "having the qualities of life," later narrowing to its modern sense of energy or vividness. The suffix -ly is prolific in English, transforming nouns into adjectives (e.g., "friendly," "scholarly").
The lively puppy chased its tail around the garden.
Her lively personality made her the center of attention.
The market was lively with vendors shouting and customers bargaining.
The artist used lively colors to capture the sunset.
The debate grew lively as more people joined the discussion.