live-action

adjective

live-ac·​tion ˈlīv-ˈak-shən How to pronounce live-action (audio)
variants or less commonly live action
1
: of, relating to, or featuring cinematography that is not produced by animation
a live-action film
2
: done or performed live and usually in person
a live-action performance
live-action role-playing games

Examples of live-action in a Sentence

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.
Those shows would later prove to be the connective tissue feeding into Disney’s live-action Star Wars universe. — Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 2 July 2026 Of course, innovation in live-action experiences can extend well beyond community outreach and awareness. — David Henkin, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 Dwayne Johnson said Moana 3 is in the works during a press conference for the live-action adaptation in Rio de Janeiro, per Variety. — Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 2 July 2026 Netflix is releasing a new game show, one that combines the popularity of Squid Game, the timeless charms of the live-action Wonka experience, and the unwanted ubiquity of technofascist horrors beyond our comprehension. — Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for live-action

Word History

First Known Use

1936, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of live-action was in 1936

Rhymes for live-action

See All Rhymes for live-action

Browse Nearby Words

liveaboard
live-action
live album
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Cite this Entry

“Live-action.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/live-action. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

live-action

adjective
live-ac·​tion ˈlīv-ˈak-shən How to pronounce live-action (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or featuring cinematography that is not produced by animation
2
: done or performed live and usually in person
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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