250 Poetic Horse Names in USA (With Meanings)

Poetic Horse Names have a charm all their own, evoking the grace, intelligence, and spirit that make horses so captivating. These majestic creatures, celebrated for their beauty and strength, each carry a personality as unique as a fingerprint. For poetic horses—those with a particularly joyful and soulful nature—their names should mirror their extraordinary essence.

In this guide, we present a thoughtfully curated list of 250 poetic horse names, complete with meanings. Each name is fresh, distinctive, and designed to resonate with the poetic elegance of your equine companion. Whether you seek a name that captures their grace, strength, or the rhythm of their gallop, you’ll find inspiration here to honor their exceptional spirit.

Poetic Horse Names

Popular Poetic Horse Names

The poetic charm of a horse’s name reflects not only its physical beauty but also its spirit, personality, and the emotions it evokes. From celestial imagery to nature-inspired metaphors, each name tells a story, adding depth to your bond with your equine companion. Here’s a handpicked list of poetic horse names, each infused with meaning to inspire and captivate.

1. Amaranthine – A timeless soul with an eternal and unchanging grace, akin to the deep beauty of the amaranth flower.
2. Beloved Beauty – A horse whose captivating presence radiates affection and breathtaking elegance.
3. Celestial Symphony – A harmonious and melodious spirit that echoes the vast beauty of the heavens.
4. Dandelion Dreams – A whimsical and free-spirited nature, reminiscent of dandelion seeds floating in the wind.
5. Effervescent Euphoria – A bubbly, joyous energy that fills every moment with life and happiness.
6. Flickering Flame – A fiery and passionate essence, flickering like the unpredictable dance of fire.
7. Gossamer Wings – A delicate and ethereal soul, light as the fragile wings of a butterfly.
8. Heavenly Haze – A tranquil and dreamy presence, veiled in the soft mist of serenity.
9. Iridescent Illusion – A mesmerizing charm that shifts and shines like a rainbow after the rain.
10. Jubilant Joy – A vibrant and exuberant personality that sparks happiness in all who meet them.
11. Kaleidoscope – Ever-changing and full of vibrant color, like a shifting mosaic of wonder.
12. Luminous Lullaby – A soothing and calming presence that brings peace and comfort, like a lullaby.
13. Moonlit Mirage – An enchanting and mystical aura, shimmering like a mirage under the moonlight.
14. Mystic Melody – A mysterious rhythm that resonates with the magic of the unknown.
15. Nebula Night – A cosmic allure, dark and infinite, like the depths of a nebula.
16. Oceanic Opulence – A rich and luxurious personality that mirrors the boundless beauty of the ocean.
17. Opulent Obsidian – A dark and glossy elegance, as striking and timeless as volcanic glass.
18. Pearlescent Purity – A luminous and pure essence, glowing softly like the surface of a pearl.
19. Quicksilver – Quick, agile, and ever-changing, as fluid and elusive as liquid silver.
20. Radiant Reflection – A bright and shining spirit, like sunlight reflected on water.
21. Resplendent Rose – A regal beauty that captivates with the grace and allure of a rose in full bloom.
22. Serendipity – A lucky and unexpected joy, a happy coincidence in the form of a horse.
23. Silvermist – A cool, mysterious presence, like a misty morning touched by silver light.
24. Starry-Eyed – A dreamy and hopeful disposition, filled with wonder and possibility.
25. Sunlit Serenade – A warm and melodious charm, evoking the peaceful glow of the sun.
26. Twilight Tempest – A stormy and intense spirit, brewing like a tempest at dusk.
27. Velvet Vixen – Smooth, seductive, and irresistibly charming, like the touch of velvet.
28. Wildflower – A free and untamed beauty, blooming naturally in unexpected places.
29. Amber Aura – A glowing warmth that radiates like the golden hues of amber.
30. Blossom Breeze – Gentle and refreshing, like a soft breeze carrying the scent of blooming flowers.
31. Cascade – A flowing and graceful presence, reminiscent of a cascading waterfall.
32. Crimson Crown – Bold and commanding, with a regal air as striking as a crown of crimson jewels.
33. Enchanted Echo – A mystical resonance that lingers like a magical whisper in the forest.
34. Evergreen – Strong, steadfast, and enduring, like the timeless beauty of evergreen trees.
35. Firefly – A playful and luminous energy that lights up the night, like a dancing firefly.
36. Golden Glimmer – Shining brightly, exuding a radiant and gilded charm.
37. Harvest Moon – Warm, abundant, and glowing with the richness of an autumn moon.
38. Indigo Illusion – A deep and mysterious presence, as captivating as a mirage in indigo hues.
39. Jade Jewel – Precious and rare, with a unique beauty like a gleaming jade stone.
40. Lavender Love – Gentle and soothing, like the calming embrace of lavender fields.
41. Midnight Mirage – A fleeting and elusive beauty, as mysterious as a mirage in the still of the night.
42. Mystic Moon – A celestial spirit that radiates the quiet magic of the moon.
43. Ocean Odyssey – Adventurous and free-spirited, like an epic journey across the waves.
44. Opal Oasis – A refreshing and vibrant soul, glowing like a hidden oasis adorned with opal hues.
45. Peacock Prism – Proud, colorful, and stunning, like the dazzling display of a peacock’s feathers.
46. Radiant Rhapsody – A harmonious and luminous presence, as uplifting as a radiant symphony.
47. Sapphire Sky – Endless and adventurous, like the infinite blue of the sky.
48. Silver Symphony – Graceful and melodious, with a shimmering elegance like a symphony in silver.
49. Twilight Twinkle – A magical sparkle that lights up the dusk with dreamy charm.
50. Wild Wind – Free, untamed, and untethered, rushing through life like the wind in an open field.

Poetic Horse Funny Names

A whimsical and playful twist on horse names, this list combines humor, personality, and creativity to capture the unique charm of every horse. Each name reflects a vivid characteristic or endearing quirk, making it a perfect choice for those looking to bring smiles and giggles every time their horse is called. Dive into this collection of  delightful and imaginative names that are as fun as they are meaningful.

1. Biscuit Breeze – Light-hearted and breezy, this name suits a horse with a relaxed yet cheerful demeanor, reminiscent of a fresh-baked biscuit.
2. Blueberry Blast – Bold, spirited, and vibrant, just like a burst of sweet blueberries.
3. Bubblegum Bounce – Effervescent and lively, this name captures the playful energy of a horse with a spring in its step.
4. Buttercup Bliss – Sweet and sunny, perfect for a horse as radiant as a golden buttercup.
5. Caramel Crunch – A blend of sweet charm and bold strength, like the satisfying bite of caramel candy.
6. Cherry Cheeks – Warm and rosy, ideal for a horse with a cute, lovable personality.
7. Chicken Nugget – A small but feisty character with a bite of boldness, much like the beloved snack.
8. Choco Loco – Fun and a little wild, perfect for a horse with a love for adventure and mischief.
9. Cinnamon Swirl – Sweetly spiced and delightfully unpredictable, like a warm cinnamon treat.
10. Coconut Chaos – Energetic and slightly nutty, just like a whirlwind of tropical fun.
11. Cupcake Cutie – Irresistibly adorable and sugary sweet, like your favorite cupcake.
12. Dilly Dally – Perfect for a laid-back, easygoing horse who loves taking their time.
13. Fizzy Frenzy – Sparkling with energy and always on the go, like an effervescent soda.
14. Flapjack Fun – A sturdy and hearty companion, as comforting as a stack of flapjacks.
15. Giggles Galore – Joyful and infectious, perfect for a horse who makes everyone smile.
16. Gravy Glide – Smooth and comforting, just like a warm, rich gravy.
17. Hot Tamale – Bold, fiery, and full of spice, perfect for a spirited horse.
18. Jellybean Joy – Sweet and colorful, bringing happiness to every moment.
19. Kiwi Quirk – Unique and tangy, like the refreshing zing of a ripe kiwi.
20. Lemon Lime Love – Zesty, refreshing, and bursting with vibrant energy.
21. Licorice Twist – A little sweet, a little spicy, and full of twists and turns.
22. Muffin Magic – Charming and heartwarming, as irresistible as a freshly baked muffin.
23. Nacho Nibbles – Cheeky and fun, perfect for a horse with a zest for life.
24. Oreo Obsession – Sweetly dark and irresistibly lovable, just like the iconic cookie.
25. Pancake Pop – Delightful and comforting, like the smell of pancakes in the morning.
26. Peppermint Prancer – Lively and spirited, prancing with the freshness of peppermint.
27. Pickle Delight – Quirky and unforgettable, with a tangy twist of fun.
28. Pineapple Charm – A burst of tropical joy, full of brightness and pizzazz.
29. Polka Dot Prance – Playful and bubbly, bringing fun to every step.
30. Poppy Sparkle – Radiant and cheerful, like the bright blooms of poppy flowers.
31. Pretzel Perk – Twisty, unique, and full of surprises, like a perfectly baked pretzel.
32. Pumpkin Glow – Warm, cozy, and full of autumnal charm.
33. Razzle Riot – Flashy, energetic, and ready to dazzle wherever they go.
34. Root Beer Buzz – Sweet, bubbly, and endlessly refreshing.
35. Sassy Sassafras – Spunky and spirited, perfect for a horse full of sass.
36. Skittles Spark – Colorful, joyful, and impossible to ignore.
37. Snickerdoodle Sweetness – Cozy and comforting, like a warm hug in cookie form.
38. Spicy Salsa – Full of flair and always ready to heat things up.
39. Strawberry Delight – Soft, sweet, and utterly charming, like fresh strawberry shortcake.
40. Sugar Spark – Radiating high energy, like the rush from a sweet treat.
41. Sweet Pea Serenity – Gentle and kind, perfect for a horse with a soft, calming presence.
42. Taco Tuesday – Whimsical and quirky, with a side of fiesta-ready fun.
43. Tangerine Tango – Bright, zesty, and always ready for a dance.
44. Toasted Treasure – Warm and golden, like the perfect toasted marshmallow.
45. Twizzler Trot – Spirited and fun, twisting their way into everyone’s heart.
46. Vanilla Dream – Sweet, smooth, and endlessly comforting.
47. Watermelon Whimsy – Refreshingly fun, like a juicy slice of summer.
48. Whipped Wonder – Light, airy, and as delightful as a dollop of whipped cream.
49. Wild Rice Whisk – Adventurous and free-spirited, with a touch of earthy charm.
50. Zebra Zest – Bold and striking, with a flair for the dramatic.

Poetic Horse Powerful Names

Unveiling the essence of strength, mystique, and legend, these poetic horse names exude grandeur and charisma. Each name is imbued with a unique story, encapsulating the timeless allure of horses and their commanding presence. Explore this carefully curated list of powerful horse names, where every title reflects elegance, bravery, and the untamed spirit of these majestic creatures.

1. Aether – Symbolizing ethereal strength and otherworldly grace, like the quintessence of the universe.
2. Apocalypse – Embodying immense power and an awe-inspiring presence, reminiscent of world-altering events.
3. Arcane – Veiled in mystery and strength, like ancient secrets and forbidden magic.
4. Armageddon – A force of destruction and resilience, invoking the final epic battle.
5. Avalanche – Unstoppable and commanding, like the roaring descent of a mountain of snow.
6. Behemoth – Towering and legendary in might, inspired by the colossal beast of mythology.
7. Blackout – Dark, intense, and formidable, like the enveloping silence of a total eclipse.
8. Blitzkrieg – Lightning-fast and fiercely strategic, echoing the power of rapid domination.
9. Boomerang – A symbol of return and steadfastness, like an unwavering and reliable ally.
10. Bulletproof – Unyielding and invincible, a testament to strength that defies the odds.
11. Centaurion – Majestic and mythical, bridging the divide between human ingenuity and equine grace.
12. Chaos Theory – Wildly unpredictable yet powerfully calculated, embodying the art of controlled chaos.
13. Cyclotron – Electrifying and full of energy, harnessing the power of scientific wonder.
14. Dark Knight – Cloaked in mystery and unyielding strength, a guardian of the unseen.
15. Eclipse – A transformative and awe-inspiring force, like the rare celestial event.
16. Enigma – Profoundly mysterious and captivating, a puzzle of unmatched depth.
17. Excalibur – Legendary and noble, evoking the strength of Arthurian lore.
18. Falconer – Swift and commanding, with the precision of a hunter and the freedom of flight.
19. Fireball – Blazing with energy and unstoppable momentum, like a streak of fire through the skies.
20. Gladiator – Fierce and unrelenting, embodying the spirit of a true warrior.
21. Goliath – Monolithic and awe-inspiring, a tribute to legendary strength and size.
22. Hammerhead – Powerful and unconventional, like the unyielding force of nature.
23. Hercules – Heroic and unmatched in might, echoing the Greek demigod’s epic feats.
24. Hurricane – Wild and overwhelming, a whirlwind of unstoppable energy.
25. Inferno – Ablaze with raw intensity and fiery determination, like a consuming flame.
26. Leviathan – Vast and deep, a colossal being of mythic proportions and power.
27. Lightning Bolt – Strikingly swift and electrifying, embodying the raw energy of nature.
28. Magnum – Grand and impactful, a symbol of unmatched power and influence.
29. Maverick – Bold and independent, breaking free from convention with raw spirit.
30. Meteor – Explosive and celestial, leaving an unforgettable mark wherever it travels.
31. Monarch – Regal and commanding, exuding the dignity of a true ruler.
32. Nebula – Cosmic and boundless, radiating the mystery of the stars.
33. Nemesis – Fierce and unrelenting, an avenger of justice and balance.
34. Onslaught – Relentlessly aggressive and overpowering, embodying the essence of sheer force.
35. Phoenix – Rising from the ashes, a symbol of resilience and renewed strength.
36. Poseidon – Majestic and untamed, ruling the waves with godlike authority.
37. Ragnarok – Herald of the end and rebirth, a cataclysmic force of change.
38. Rampage – Unchecked and ferocious, a whirlwind of unbridled power.
39. Red Baron – Daring and skilled, invoking the prowess of a legendary fighter.
40. Renegade – Rebellious and untamed, blazing a trail of independent spirit.
41. Sabre – Sharp and striking, like the edge of a well-forged blade.
42. Sentinel – Ever-watchful and protective, standing guard with unwavering strength.
43. Shadowfax – Legendary and swift, a timeless symbol of grace and power.
44. Silver Bullet – Quick and decisive, a solution of unparalleled precision.
45. Spartan – Disciplined and valiant, honoring the legacy of ancient warriors.
46. Storm – Tempestuous and awe-inspiring, a force of nature in motion.
47. Tempest – Turbulent and untamed, like the roaring winds of a great storm.
48. Thor – Thunderous and commanding, wielding strength of mythic proportions.
49. Titan – Colossal and enduring, embodying the grandeur of ancient power.
50. Valkyrie – Heroic and majestic, a divine warrior of Norse legend guiding the brave.

Poetic Horse Names That Represent Their Joyful Nature

Horses are magnificent creatures whose vibrant spirits often mirror the joy and beauty of the natural world. The right name for your horse can celebrate their lively and playful essence, reflecting their unique personality while embodying the poetic charm that makes them so special. Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of names, each imbued with rich meanings that symbolize happiness, radiance, and vitality.

1. Angel – A horse with a serene and protective spirit, embodying grace and purity like a guardian angel.
2. Bliss – A horse whose presence radiates pure joy, as if encapsulating a state of happiness.
3. Bubbles – A horse with a buoyant personality, as light and carefree as dancing bubbles in the breeze.
4. Buttercup – A cheerful horse, bright and warm, reminiscent of the golden hues of a buttercup flower.
5. Cheer – A horse that uplifts everyone’s spirits, embodying the enthusiasm of a joyful celebration.
6. Chirpy – A lively horse whose personality sparkles like the cheerful chirping of a songbird.
7. Daffodil – A radiant horse, exuding brightness and positivity, much like the bloom of spring daffodils.
8. Daisy – A gentle and innocent horse, as pure and charming as the classic white daisy flower.
9. Delight – A horse whose playful energy brings delight to everyone around, a true source of happiness.
10. Elation – A horse that inspires an uncontainable sense of joy, as exhilarating as pure euphoria.
11. Fizz – A spirited horse with an effervescent personality, as lively as sparkling soda bubbles.
12. Giggles – A playful horse that brings laughter and joy, reminiscent of carefree childhood giggles.
13. Happy – A horse whose very presence exudes contentment, embodying the essence of happiness.
14. Jolly – A horse with a hearty and cheerful demeanor, as festive and lively as a holiday celebration.
15. Joy – A horse that radiates pure joy, a living embodiment of happiness and positivity.
16. Jubilee – A horse with a celebratory spirit, as vibrant and jubilant as a grand festival.
17. Lively – A spirited horse full of energy, whose movements are as dynamic as a lively dance.
18. Merry – A horse with a warm and cheerful heart, bringing joy like the season of goodwill.
19. Peaches – A sweet and affectionate horse, whose nature is as tender as the juicy fruit.
20. Peppy – A spirited and high-energy horse, brimming with cheerful enthusiasm.
21. Perky – A horse with a chipper and energetic personality, always radiating positivity.
22. Pippin – A playful and mischievous horse, as delightful as a crisp and sweet apple.
23. Poppy – A vibrant and colorful horse, whose spirit blooms like the striking red poppy flower.
24. Radiance – A horse with a shining and luminous personality, as captivating as sunlight on water.
25. Rainbow – A magical horse whose presence brings hope and beauty, like a colorful arch in the sky.
26. Serenade – A harmonious and melodious horse, whose grace inspires poetic admiration.
27. Shimmer – A dazzling horse whose movements gleam like a soft light reflected on water.
28. Smiles – A cheerful horse, whose demeanor lights up the day like a friendly smile.
29. Spark – A spirited horse with an electric energy, like the initial flicker of a roaring fire.
30. Sparkle – A glittering and vivacious horse, radiating joy like a shimmering jewel.
31. Spirit – A free-spirited horse whose vibrant energy speaks of independence and vitality.
32. Sprout – A fresh and energetic horse, representing growth and new beginnings.
33. Star – A horse that shines brightly in any setting, as captivating as the twinkle of a star.
34. Sunny – A radiant horse that brings warmth and happiness, like a clear, sunny day.
35. Sunshine – A glowing and uplifting horse, whose presence brightens the lives of those around.
36. Sweetie – A lovable and endearing horse, as cherished as a sweet treat.
37. Twinkle – A horse with a magical charm, whose presence sparkles like starlight.
38. Upbeat – An optimistic horse, always lifting spirits with their cheerful energy.
39. Whimsy – A playful and imaginative horse, bringing joy like a whimsical fairytale.
40. Wink – A mischievous and charming horse, as endearing as a friendly wink.
41. Wonder – A horse whose essence inspires awe and amazement, as extraordinary as a miracle.
42. Zest – A horse full of energetic charm, as invigorating as a zest of citrus.
43. Zing – A sprightly horse, brimming with enthusiasm, as lively as a sharp melody.
44. Zippy – A quick and energetic horse, as fast and lively as a zooming car.
45. Zoey – A vibrant and dynamic horse, radiating the energy of a lively companion.
46. Zora – A majestic and radiant horse, as brilliant as the dawning light.
47. Zuri – A beautiful and regal horse, exuding grace and elegance like a precious gem.
48. Zuzu – A playful and affectionate horse, whose charm is as sweet as a cherished nickname.
49. Ziggy – An energetic and zany horse, full of charisma and lively spirit.
50. Zephyr – A horse as gentle and free as a soft, refreshing breeze.

Poetic Horse Names That Represent Their Intelligence

Horses possess an innate grace and intellect that make them truly unique companions. Choosing a name that reflects their intelligence not only celebrates their remarkable nature but also highlights their individuality. Below is a carefully curated list of poetic horse names, each accompanied by an imaginative and meaningful description. These names blend elegance and intellect, offering perfect options for your extraordinary equine friend.

1. Astra – A horse whose spirit shines like the stars, embodying celestial wisdom and endless possibilities.
2. Athena – A horse whose intelligence mirrors the wisdom of the Greek goddess, strong, strategic, and sagacious.
3. Atlas – A horse with steadfast strength and a profound knowledge, like the Titan who bore the weight of the heavens.
4. Aurora – A horse with a luminous and radiant personality, reminiscent of the enchanting Northern Lights.
5. Brainstorm – A horse with a mind bursting with creativity and innovative ideas, as dynamic as a brainstorming session.
6. Bright – A horse whose intellect gleams like a beacon, illuminating the world around them.
7. Clever – A quick-witted and resourceful horse, always finding solutions with sharp precision.
8. Einstein – A horse of unmatched brilliance, whose intellect is as groundbreaking as the physicist’s theories.
9. Enigma – A horse wrapped in mystery and depth, intriguing like a puzzle that challenges the mind.
10. Galileo – A horse with boundless curiosity, observing the world with the wonder of a pioneering astronomer.
11. Genius – A horse who dazzles with extraordinary intelligence, excelling beyond the ordinary.
12. Illumination – A horse who radiates insight, bringing clarity and understanding wherever they tread.
13. Insight – A horse whose deep understanding and perceptiveness cut straight to the heart of matters.
14. Intuition – A horse guided by a sharp, instinctive intellect that seems almost otherworldly.
15. Kepler – A horse with a precise and analytical mind, navigating the complexities of life like the famed astronomer.
16. Logic – A horse who embodies rationality and clarity, solving challenges with a calm and methodical approach.
17. Luminary – A horse that stands out as a guiding light, illuminating the way with wisdom and grace.
18. Mindful – A horse of quiet intelligence, exuding thoughtfulness and a sense of presence.
19. Newton – A horse whose innovative nature mirrors the brilliance of the physicist who redefined science.
20. Oracle – A horse with a prophetic and insightful personality, always seeming to know what lies ahead.
21. Perception – A horse with an acute ability to observe and interpret, perceiving even the subtlest details.
22. Phoenix – A horse whose intellect and resilience rise anew from challenges, like the mythical firebird.
23. Quasar – A horse radiating immense energy and power, as captivating as the celestial phenomenon.
24. Reason – A horse driven by logic and balance, embodying calm, thoughtful decision-making.
25. Sage – A wise and learned horse, offering guidance and serenity to those around them.
26. Scholar – A horse who thrives on knowledge and understanding, always eager to learn more.
27. Sherlock – A horse with unmatched deductive reasoning, solving mysteries with ease and flair.
28. Sol – A horse whose spirit burns brightly like the sun, radiating warmth and brilliance.
29. Sparky – A lively, intelligent horse whose quick energy lights up any room or stable.
30. Specter – A horse of ethereal beauty and enigmatic intellect, leaving an unforgettable impression.
31. Sphinx – A horse whose intelligence is enigmatic and profound, echoing the mystique of ancient riddles.
32. Spiritus – A horse whose essence blends wisdom and spirituality, a companion of the soul.
33. Starlight – A horse who gleams with intelligence as captivating as the stars on a clear night.
34. Tesla – A horse whose innovative spark and brilliance honor the ingenuity of the famed inventor.
35. Thalia – A witty and charismatic horse, embodying the muse of comedy and joy.
36. Theorem – A horse of mathematical elegance, embodying the logic and beauty of universal truths.
37. Thinker – A contemplative and profound horse, pondering the mysteries of life with wisdom.
38. Titan – A horse whose power and intellect are as grand and awe-inspiring as a mythical giant.
39. Twilight – A mysterious and thoughtful horse, capturing the beauty and depth of the dusky horizon.
40. Vision – A horse with an inspiring and far-reaching intellect, always dreaming beyond the ordinary.
41. Voyager – A horse whose adventurous spirit and keen intelligence lead to constant discovery.
42. Whiz – A quick-thinking and sharp horse, excelling in every challenge with brilliance.
43. Wisdom – A horse of deep understanding, embodying the essence of timeless knowledge.
44. Wizard – A magical and brilliant horse, conjuring solutions with an almost mystical ease.
45. Xenon – A rare and unique horse, glowing with brilliance like the luminous element.
46. Xylo – A horse with a harmonious and rhythmic personality, like the elegant notes of a xylophone.
47. Yoda – A horse whose wisdom transcends the ordinary, offering sage advice and guidance.
48. Zen – A tranquil and perceptive horse, embodying the peaceful essence of mindfulness.
49. Zeus – A powerful and commanding horse, exuding an aura of dominance and intelligence.
50. Zora – A radiant and shining horse, illuminating the world around them with brilliance.

Wrap-Up

Choosing the perfect name for your horse is a meaningful way to honor their personality and spirit. Poetic horses, known for their joyful demeanor and sharp intelligence, deserve names that celebrate their uniqueness and charm. We hope our curated list of 250 poetic horse names with meanings has sparked your imagination and helped you discover a name that truly resonates with your equine friend. A horse’s name is more than just a word—it’s a tribute to their individuality and a symbol of the special bond you share. Take your time, choose thoughtfully, and embrace the journey ahead with your poetic companion, who will undoubtedly bring beauty and brilliance to your life