Live

Live is a word with several related meanings. As an adjective and an adverb, it refers to things that are currently happening or existing, and to beings that are alive. The form is derived from Old English and has different pronunciations when used as a verb (to live) versus in reference to real-time events (live broadcast).

In biology and everyday use, live describes living organisms and the condition of life. It contrasts with dead or extinct and appears in phrases such as living things, live birth, and livelihoods linked to living systems.

In media and entertainment, live denotes events or performances transmitted in real time, such as live television, live radio, and live streaming. Live coverage aims to present events as they unfold, sometimes with minimal delay. A live performance is one presented in front of an audience, with the audience's presence shaping the experience. In publishing and music, the term appears in "live albums" or recordings captured during a concert, later released for listening.

In technology and computing, live can describe data that updates in real time (live data), systems that are active (go live), or software designed for real-time interaction. The term also appears in the names of products and brands, such as Ableton Live, a digital audio workstation used for music production and performance.

Overall, live conveys immediacy and presence, whether referring to living beings, events happening at the moment, or software and data operations designed to respond in real time.