a. [ Compar. Livelier superl. Liveliest. ] [ For lifely. Cf. Lifelike. ] 1. Endowed with or manifesting life; living. [ 1913 Webster ] Chaplets of gold and silver resembling lively flowers and leaves. Holland. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. Brisk; vivacious; active; as, a lively youth. [ 1913 Webster ] But wherefore comes old Manoa in such haste,
With youthful steps ? Much livelier than erewhile
He seems. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. Gay; airy; animated; spirited. [ 1913 Webster ] From grave to gay, from lively to severe. Pope. [ 1913 Webster ] 4. Representing life; lifelike. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ] I spied the lively picture of my father. Massinger. [ 1913 Webster ] 5. Bright; vivid; glowing; strong; vigorous. [ 1913 Webster ] The colors of the prism are manifestly more full, intense, and lively that those of natural bodies. Sir I. Newton. [ 1913 Webster ] His faith must be not only living, but lively too. South. [ 1913 Webster ]
Lively stones (Script.), saints, as being quickened by the Spirit, and active in holiness.
Syn. -- Brisk; vigorous; quick; nimble; smart; active; alert; sprightly; animated; spirited; prompt; earnest; strong; energetic; vivid; vivacious; blithe; gleeful; airy; gay; jocund. [ 1913 Webster ] | 
