vital

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. adjective urgently needed; absolutely necessary
  2. adjective performing an essential function in the living body
  3. adjective full of spirit

Etymology

From Middle English vital, from Old French vital, from Latin vītālis (“of life, life-giving”), from vīta (“life”), from vīvō (“to live”). Doublet of jiva and quick.

In classic literature

Synonyms

critical

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