adj. 1 (attrib.) that is alive; living. 2 (of a broadcast) heard or seen at the time of its performance, not from a recording. 3 full of power, energy, or importance; not obsolete or exhausted (disarmament is still a live issue). 4 expending or still able to expend energy in various forms, esp.: a (of coals) glowing, burning. b (of a shell) unexploded. c (of a match) unkindled. d (of a wire etc.) connected to a source of electrical power. 5 (of rock) not detached, seeming to form part of the earth's frame. 6 (of a wheel or axle etc. in machinery) moving or imparting motion. live bait small fish used to entice prey. live load the weight of persons or goods in a building or vehicle. live oak an American evergreen tree, Quercus virginiana. live wire an energetic and forceful person.
[ aphetic form of ALIVE ]