lifelike

1 of 2

adjective

life·​like ˈlīf-ˌlīk How to pronounce lifelike (audio)
Synonyms of lifelikenext
: accurately representing or imitating real life
a lifelike portrait
lifelikeness noun

lifelikeness

2 of 2

noun

life·​like·​ness
plural -es
: the quality or state of being lifelike
lifelikeness of expression

Synonyms of lifelike

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Adjective

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Examples of lifelike in a Sentence

Adjective The graphics in the video game are more lifelike than we imagined they would be. the eyes of the lifelike portrait seem to follow visitors around the room
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
The guitars and fiddle sound a lot more lifelike with the extra texture. — Mark Knapp, PC Magazine, 24 Oct. 2026 All of these elements together create a film that is decidedly more lifelike than its predecessors. — Andrew Webster, The Verge, 22 Oct. 2026 Highlights of the production will include a lifelike puppet portraying Toto, eight dancers taking flight (the most of any KC Ballet production) and ruby slippers adorned with 288 jewels. — Dan Kelly october 15, Kansas City Star, 15 Oct. 2026 Tousle-haired, rosy-cheeked and 10 inches tall, Topo Gigio was remarkably lifelike — equipped with a moving mouth and blinking eyes. — Kaja Andric, New York Times, 3 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lifelike

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lifelike was in the 14th century

Rhymes for lifelike

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Browse Nearby Words

lifelessness
lifelike
lifelikeness
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lifelike.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lifelike. Accessed 31 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

lifelike

adjective
life·​like ˈlī-ˌflīk How to pronounce lifelike (audio)
: accurately representing or imitating an actual living thing
a lifelike statue
lifelikeness noun
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