live wire
1. A wire through which electricity is running. The power cable was severed when the car hit the pole, and the end of the live wire fell onto the windshield.
2. A very lively or energetic person. Greg's such a live wire that it's tough to keep up with his stories!
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
live wire
A highly alert or energetic person. For example, Sally's a real live wire; she brightens up any gathering. This metaphoric term transfers a wire carrying electric current to a lively individual. [c. 1900]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
a live wire
A live wire is a very lively and energetic person. She is a wonderful girl, a real live wire and full of fun. Note: A live wire is an electric wire or cable that has an electric current running through it.
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012
live wire
an energetic and unpredictable person. informalFarlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
a live ˈwire
(informal) a lively and enthusiastic person: You must invite her to your party — she’s a real live wire. ♢ We need a live wire like him in this department. Let’s give him the job. OPPOSITE: a wet blanketA wire that is live is connected to a source of electrical power, so has a great deal of energy.
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
(live) wire
n. an energetic and vivacious person. With a wire like Taylor in charge, things will get done, that’s for sure.
McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions Copyright © 2006 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.