vitality
vy-TAL-ih-tee
/vaɪˈtæləti/
the state of being strong and active; energy.
Vitality suggests a 'spark' or 'glow' of life, often implying both physical health and mental spirit.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'vita', meaning 'life'. It’s the same root that gives us 'vitamin' (essential for life) and 'vital signs'. It’s the essence of being truly alive, not just existing.
Word relationships
- vivacity: Specifically refers to being attractively lively and animated.
- exuberance: The quality of being full of energy, excitement, and cheerfulness.
- lethargy: Lack of energy.
- lifelessness: The state of having no life or energy.
Commonly confused with
- virility: Virility specifically refers to male strength and sex drive; vitality is general life force for anyone.
Word family
- vital (adjective): Essential for life.
- vitalize (verb): To give strength and energy to.
Collocations
- youthful vitality
- full of vitality
- economic vitality
Example sentences
- "Even at eighty, she possessed a remarkable vitality that put people half her age to shame." Describing someone's appearance.
- "The new park has restored some of the economic vitality to the downtown area." Describing an urban environment.
Memory hook
Vitality: 'Vitamin-T'—imagine a vitamin that gives you instant energy. The glow of life.
When not to use
Don't use it for simple 'power'; it's more about the 'quality' of being alive and energetic.
Fun facts
- In the 18th century, scientists believed in 'vitalism'—the idea that living things were powered by a 'vital spark' that was different from physical or chemical forces.
Explore more words
invigorate, vibrant, revitalize, vivacious, restorative, zest
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