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Life:

-noun, plural lives .

1. the condition that distinguishes organisms from inorganic objects and dead organisms, being manifested by growth through metabolism, reproduction, and the power of adaptation to environment through changes originating internally.

2. the sum of the distinguishing phenomena of organisms, especially metabolism, growth, reproduction, and adaptation to environment.​

3. a corresponding state, existence, or principle of existence conceived of as belonging to the soul: "eternal life."

4. a living being, especially a human being: "Several lives were lost.​"

5. a particular aspect of existence: "He enjoys an active physical life."

6. the course of existence or sum of experiences and actions that constitute a person's existence: "His business has been his entire life."

7. animation; liveliness; spirit: "a speech full of life."

8. resilience; elasticity.

9. the force that makes or keeps something alive; the vivifying or quickening principle: "The life of the treaty has been an increase of mutual understanding and respect."

10. a person or thing that enlivens, cheers, or brightens a gathering or group: "the life of the party."

11. effervescence or sparkle, as of wines.

12. pungency or strong, sharp flavor, as of substances when fresh or in good condition.​​​​

—Idioms

1. as large as life, actually; indeed: "There he stood, as large as life. Also, as big as life."

2. come to life,

   • to recover consciousness.

   • to become animated and vigorous: "The evening passed, but somehow the party never came to life."

3. for dear life, with desperate effort, energy, or speed: "We ran for dear life, with the dogs at our heels. Also, for one's life."

4. get a life, to improve the quality of one's social and professional life: often used in the imperative to express impatience with someone's behavior: "Stop wasting time with that nonsense; get a life!"

5. take one's life in one's hands, to risk death knowingly: "We were warned that we were taking our lives in our hands by going through that swampy area."