Definition

To reverse or cancel the state of being alive; to make something no longer alive.

Example

The scientist's experiment aimed to unlive the cells in the culture.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I really wish I could just unlive that embarrassing moment from last week.

I know how you feel; sometimes I wish I could erase my mistakes too.

It would be nice if we could just press a button and make things right.

Exactly! But I guess we have to learn from them instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

This word originates from the prefix 'un-' (meaning not) and the root 'live' (from Old English 'libban', meaning to be alive). The word 'unlive' means to not be alive or to cease to live.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being applied to 'live' — this helps you remember that 'unlive' means to not be alive.

Visually Confused Words