lifeline

noun

life·​line ˈlīf-ˌlīn 

1

: a line (such as a rope) used for saving or preserving life: such as

a

: a line along the outer edge of the deck of a boat or ship

b

: a line used to keep contact with a person (such as a diver or astronaut) in a dangerous or potentially dangerous situation

2

: something regarded as indispensable for the maintaining or protection of life

Examples of lifeline in a Sentence

The river is the town's lifeline.

The new jobs were an economic lifeline for a city in need of help.

The radio was their lifeline to the outside world.

They threw a lifeline to the man overboard.

Recent Examples on the Web

After more than a century as a fixture on Main Streets across the country, one of Chicago’s signature companies is grabbing at a lifeline. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 15 Dec. 2024

Now Warning Issued To All iPhone Users The Game Awards 2024 Live Winners List, And Game Of The Year Communication as the Anchor Clear, transparent communication is the lifeline of effective leadership, particularly under stress. —Brent Gleeson, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024

Call or text the lifeline at 988, or see the 988lifeline.org website, where chat is available. —Jakob Rodgers, The Mercury News, 13 Dec. 2024

This is the second time the program — initially set to expire in July — has been thrown a lifeline. —Cindy Carcamo, Los Angeles Times, 12 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

lifeline

noun

life·​line ˈlī-ˌflīn 

1

: a line persons may hang on to for safety or rescue

2

: something providing help or support that is needed for success or survival