• |
The state of being which begins with generation, birth, or
germination, and ends with death; also, the time during which this
state continues; that state of an animal or plant in which all or any
of its organs are capable of performing all or any of their functions;
-- used of all animal and vegetable organisms. |
• |
Of human beings: The union of the soul and body; also, the
duration of their union; sometimes, the deathless quality or existence
of the soul; as, man is a creature having an immortal life. |
• |
The potential principle, or force, by which the organs of
animals and plants are started and continued in the performance of
their several and cooperative functions; the vital force, whether
regarded as physical or spiritual. |
• |
Figuratively: The potential or animating principle, also, the
period of duration, of anything that is conceived of as resembling a
natural organism in structure or functions; as, the life of a state, a
machine, or a book; authority is the life of government. |
• |
A certain way or manner of living with respect to conditions,
circumstances, character, conduct, occupation, etc.; hence, human
affairs; also, lives, considered collectively, as a distinct class or
type; as, low life; a good or evil life; the life of Indians, or of
miners. |
• |
Animation; spirit; vivacity; vigor; energy. |
• |
That which imparts or excites spirit or vigor; that upon
which enjoyment or success depends; as, he was the life of the company,
or of the enterprise. |
• |
The living or actual form, person, thing, or state; as, a
picture or a description from the life. |
• |
A person; a living being, usually a human being; as, many
lives were sacrificed. |
• |
The system of animal nature; animals in general, or
considered collectively. |
• |
An essential constituent of life, esp. the blood. |
• |
A history of the acts and events of a life; a biography; as,
Johnson wrote the life of Milton. |
• |
Enjoyment in the right use of the powers; especially, a
spiritual existence; happiness in the favor of God; heavenly felicity. |
• |
Something dear to one as one's existence; a darling; -- used
as a term of endearment. |