larger-than-life
Americanadjective
adjective
Etymology
Origin of larger-than-life
First recorded in 1945–50
Explanation
When something is larger-than-life, it seems more important or fascinating than anything else around it. An actor who is mild mannered and shy in person can seem larger-than-life when she's on the stage. You can use this term for something that's actually larger than usual, like Michelangelo's larger-than-life statue "David," which is three times as tall as the average man. It's also a good way to describe someone who is so flashy and flamboyant that they just seem to take up extra room: "My larger-than-life cousin makes every family gathering much more interesting."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Fury, with his Netflix documentaries and larger-than-life personality, has always made himself the attraction.
From BBC ● Aug. 28, 2026
Her larger-than-life paintings, sculptures and installations -- inspired by vivid hallucinations -- sold for millions of dollars and packed out top galleries.
From Barron's ● Aug. 27, 2026
The ACM hailed her "unmistakable voice, unforgettable songs, generosity and larger-than-life spirit."
From Barron's ● Aug. 25, 2026
With an ever-present smile, infectious spirit and larger-than-life personality, defensive back Cole Martin is always undeniably himself.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 18, 2026
Just a few minutes before, the president of the United States had been a vibrant and larger-than-life presence.
From "Lincoln's Last Days: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever" by Bill O'Reilly
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
