Gyvenimas

Gyvenimas is the Lithuanian noun meaning life. It denotes the existence of living beings and the conditions that sustain them. In everyday speech, the term covers biological life as well as human experience and time lived.

Etymology and usage: It derives from the verb gyventi (to live). The word appears in phrases such as gyvenimo kelias (path of life), gyvenimo būdas (lifestyle), and gyvenimo tikslas (purpose of life).

Biological aspect: In biology, life is characterized by metabolism, growth, reproduction, response to stimuli, homeostasis, and adaptation. Living organisms are organized, use energy, and pass genetic information to offspring.

Human life and society: Population-level measures include life expectancy, mortality, fertility, and aging. Health care, nutrition, and environment influence the duration and quality of life.

Philosophical and cultural context: Gyvenimas is also a subject of philosophy, literature, and religion, addressing questions of meaning, value, and mortality. In Lithuania, as in many cultures, life is discussed in family, education, and social policy.

See also: Life; Biology; Philosophy; Demography.