Outlive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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outlive
[aʊtˈlɪv ]
Definition
survival period
To outlive means to live longer than another person or thing. It implies a comparison of lifespans and suggests that one entity has survived beyond the duration of another. This term is often used in contexts involving mortality and can also refer to enduring or persisting beyond a certain time limit. Outliving can refer to both physical life and the longevity of ideas or trends.
Synonyms
last, live longer, outlast, survive.
Examples of usage
- She outlived her siblings by many years.
- The ancient oak tree has outlived many generations of humans.
- New technologies often outlive their predecessors.
- They hope to outlive the current economic downturn.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Health and Longevity
- Studies show that lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, can greatly affect how long a person lives.
- Certain species, like the Greenland shark, can live for over 400 years, showcasing extreme longevity in nature.
- In various cultures, there are rituals and traditions to honor the elderly, acknowledging their extended lifespan.
Literature
- In Shakespeare's plays, themes of legacy often revolve around characters hoping to outlive their adversaries through remembrance.
- Many poems explore the notion of living on through memory, suggesting that words can outlive the physical body.
- Classic novels frequently address how characters deal with mortality and the desire to leave a lasting impact.
Pop Culture
- The song 'I Will Survive' became an anthem for resilience, illustrating the idea of outliving difficult circumstances.
- In movies, characters often strive to outlive their foes, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
- Reality television often highlights themes of endurance, where contestants compete to outlive each other for prizes.
Psychology
- Research indicates optimism can influence lifespan, suggesting a positive mindset may help individuals outlive pessimistic counterparts.
- The concept of 'legacy' in psychology relates to how people want their stories and memories to outlive their physical presence.
- Social connections and relationships are key factors in longevity; those with strong bonds tend to outlive their isolated peers.
Origin of 'outlive'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'outlive' comes from Middle English, combining 'out' (to surpass) and 'live' (to be alive).
- The term was used in literature since the 14th century, showing people's fascination with longevity and survival.
- Related words include 'outlasting' and 'surviving,' both emphasizing endurance over time.
The word 'outlive' originates from the Old English term 'ūtlifan', which means 'to live longer than'. It is formed from the prefix 'out-' meaning 'beyond' or 'more than', combined with 'live', derived from the Proto-Germanic root '*libam', meaning 'to be alive'. Over centuries, the term evolved in usage from its Old English roots to its current form, reflecting various cultural attitudes toward life, death, and the endurance of both people and ideas. In literature and common speech, 'outlive' has been used to express not just a physical survival, but also the survival of memories, traditions, or values that extend beyond an individual's life span.