lifeblood

noun

life·​blood ˈlīf-ˈbləd How to pronounce lifeblood (audio)
-ˌbləd
1
: blood regarded as the seat of vitality
2
: a vital or life-giving force or component
freedom of inquiry is the lifeblood of a university

Examples of lifeblood in a Sentence

The town's lifeblood has always been its fishing industry. The neighborhoods are the lifeblood of this city. the lifeblood that flows through his veins
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While the policies have historically done little to foster or support cultural development, the greatest beneficiary of their fiscal policies tend to be wealthy individuals who are the lifeblood of the market. The Editors Of Artnews, ARTnews.com, 2 Jan. 2025 Image Image Electricity is the lifeblood of technology. Jovelle Tamayo, New York Times, 25 Dec. 2024 This is the lifeblood of a long-term relationship, whereas neglect and controlling behavior can only contribute to decay. Mark Travers, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024 Those kinds of shops, many independently owned, have been the lifeblood of both the sport and recreational side of running for more than 40 years, providing a sense of community and spreading their knowledge and passion to all levels of runners. Brian Metzler, Outside Online, 22 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for lifeblood 

Word History

First Known Use

1579, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lifeblood was in 1579

Dictionary Entries Near lifeblood

Cite this Entry

“Lifeblood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lifeblood. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

lifeblood

noun
life·​blood ˈlīf-ˈbləd How to pronounce lifeblood (audio)
: something that gives strength and energy

More from Merriam-Webster on lifeblood

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