larger-than-life

American  

[lahr-jer-thuhn-lahyf] / ˈlɑr dʒər ðənˈlaɪf /

adjective

1. exceedingly imposing, impressive, or memorable, especially in appearance or forcefulness.

   a larger-than-life leader.

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larger-than-life British  

adjective

1. exceptionally striking or colourful

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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

See Examples For:

larger-than-life

There’s no movie star to take charge, and Greengrass doesn’t inflate the passengers into larger-than-life heroes.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 11, 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

Known for her larger-than-life image, Dolly Parton combined rhinestones, wit and charm to sustain a career that crossed from country to mainstream pop.

From BBC ● Aug. 25, 2026

The ACM hailed her "unmistakable voice, unforgettable songs, generosity and larger-than-life spirit."

From Barron's ● Aug. 25, 2026

We walked beneath a huge billboard with a larger-than-life picture of a woman decked in gold jewelry—not just bangles and necklaces and earrings and nose rings, but even golden hair clips.

From "The Bridge Home" by Padma Venkatraman