VI'TAL, a. [L. vitalis, from vita, life. This must be a contraction of victa, for vivo forms vixi, victus; Gr. contracted.] 1. Pertaining to life, either animal or vegetable; as vital energies; vital powers.2. Contributing to life; necessary to life; as vital air; vital blood.3. Containing life.Spirits that live throughout, vital in every part - and vital virtue infus'd, and vital warmth.4. Being the seat of life; being that on which life depends.The dart flew on, and pierc'd a vital part.5. Very necessary; highly important; essential. Religion is a business of vital concern. Peace is of vital importance to our country.6. So disposed as to live.Pythagoras and Hippocrates affirm the birth of the seventh month to be vital. [Little used.]Vital air, pure air or oxygen gas, which is essential to animal life.
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