life of the party
Meaning
The person who makes a social event fun and lively; the center of attention and entertainment.
Origin
From the idea that a party’s “life” (spirit/energy) comes from a lively person who enlivens the room; recorded in English from the early 20th century.
Notes
Usually a compliment for someone who energizes a group. Often implies sociable, funny, outgoing; can be lightly ironic depending on tone.
Examples
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Whenever Maya shows up, she becomes the life of the party within minutes.
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He was the life of the party at the office holiday dinner, telling stories and making everyone laugh.
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I’m not usually the life of the party, but I tried to be more social at the reunion.
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Even after a long week, she managed to be the life of the party at her friend’s birthday.
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With his quick jokes and easy charm, Carlos is always the life of the party.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically used with “the”: “the life of the party.” Often as a noun phrase after “be”: “She’s the life of the party.” Can be used predicatively or as an appositive.
Synonyms
- social butterfly
- center of attention
- the star of the show
Antonyms
- wallflower
- wet blanket