(n) (biology) a hypothetical force (not physical or chemical) once thought by Henri Bergson to cause the evolution and development of organisms, Syn. elan vital, vitality, vital force
[めい, mei] (n) (1) (sometimes written as 生命) (See 生命) life; life force; (2) lifetime; lifespan; (3) most important thing; foundation; core; (4) (arch) paired tattoos of the "life" kanji on the upper arms of a man and woman (indicating unwavering love); (5) (arch) fate; destiny; karma; (P)#1561
[きけっすい, kikessui] (n) life force, blood, and colourless bodily fluids (three elements that constitute an organism according to traditional Chinese medicine)
[こうぜんのき, kouzennoki] (n) (1) universal life force (the source of animation for all things); (2) free spirit (i.e. a mindset unencumbered with worldly concerns)