Appears in: Italian Pictures: July in Vallombrosa; “Sketch of a Man on a Platform”
Frequency: 11
Definition:
(noun) 1) 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; 2) Of human beings: The union of soul and body; also, the duration of their union; sometimes, the deathless quality or existence of the soul; 3) (Philosophy) The potential principle, or force, by which the organs of animals and plants are started and continued in the performance of their several and coöperative functions; the vital force, whether regarded as physical or spiritual; 4) 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; 5) 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; 6) Animation; spirit; vivacity; vigor; energy; 7) That which imparts or excites spirit or vigor; that upon which enjoyment or success depends; 8) The living or actual form, person, thing, or state; 9) A person; a living being, usually a human being; 10) The system of animal nature; animals in general, or considered collectively; 11) An essential constituent of life, esp. the blood; 12) A history of the acts and events of life; a biography; 13) Enjoyment in the right use of the powers; especially, a spiritual existence; happiness in the favor of God; heavenly felicity; 14) Something dear to one as one’s existence; a darling;—used as a term of endearment (MW)
