— livelily , adv. — liveliness , n.
/luyv"lee/ , adj., livelier, liveliest , adv.
adj.
1. full or suggestive of life or vital energy; active, vigorous, or brisk: a lively discussion.
2. animated, spirited, vivacious, or sprightly: a lively tune; a lively wit.
3. eventful, stirring, or exciting: The opposition gave us a lively time.
4. bustling with activity; astir: The marketplace was lively with vendors.
5. strong, keen, or distinct; vivid: a lively recollection.
6. striking, telling, or effective, as an expression or instance.
7. vivid or bright, as color or light: a lively pink.
8. sparkling, as wines.
9. fresh or invigorating, as air: a lively breeze.
10. rebounding quickly; springing back; resilient: a lively tennis ball.
11. riding the sea buoyantly, as a ship.
adv.
12. with briskness, vigor, or animation; briskly: to step lively.
[ bef. 1000; ME; OE liflic vital. See LIFE, -LY ]
Syn. 1. alert, spry, nimble, agile, quick, pert. 2. gay, buoyant. 5. forceful, clear. 7. brilliant, clear, glowing.
Ant. 1. inactive, torpid. 2. dull. 5. weak. 7. dim.