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

The row has also reignited discussion around Singh himself - one of India's biggest film stars, known for hits including Padmaavat and Gully Boy, and his flamboyant, larger-than-life personality.

From BBC • May 27, 2026

But his 15-year-old son Harry's favourite memories of his dad were made at home, where Matt was a larger-than-life character who cherished his family.

From BBC • May 12, 2026

“My dad is like a funny little Dominican guy and then my Cuban mom is this larger-than-life kind of figure,” explains the 28-year-old stand-up comic.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2026

The larger-than-life footballer died of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema -- a condition where fluid accumulates in the lungs -- two weeks after going under the knife.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

Andrew Jackson was still an admired, larger-than-life president and war hero.

From "In the Shadow of Liberty" by Kenneth C. Davis