Etymology

Adjective

1. Having life, in opposition to dead; living; being in a state in which the organs perform their functions; as, an animal or a plant which is alive.
2. In a state of action; in force or operation; unextinguished; unexpired; existent

   to keep the fire alive; to keep the affections alive.

3. Exhibiting the activity and motion of many living beings; swarming; thronged.

   The Boyne, for a quarter of a mile, was alive with muskets and green boughs. -- Thomas Babington Macaulay.

4. Sprightly; lively; brisk.
5. Having susceptibility; easily impressed; having lively feelings, as opposed to apathy; sensitive.

   Tremblingly alive to nature's laws. -- William Falconer.

6. As intensifier, of all living.

   Northumberland was the proudest man alive. --Edward Hyde Clarendon.

Usage notes

• As intensifier, used colloquially "man alive!", "sakes alive!".
• Alive always follows the noun which it qualifies.