livelihood

noun

live·​li·​hood ˈlīv-lē-ˌhu̇d 

1

: means of support or subsistence (see subsistence sense 2)

The villagers' main livelihood is fishing.

2

obsolete : the quality or state of being lively

Examples of livelihood in a Sentence

Many fishermen believe that the new regulations threaten their livelihoods.

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite getting only 20 mpg with the new gas-guzzling SUV, Kelly has shown America the right way to take a stand when a company or executive declares war on your livelihood, values or beliefs. —Leonard Greene, New York Daily News, 30 Mar. 2025

All of which rings sad, but, these kids’ livelihoods are more important than my entertainment. —Stewart Mandel, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025

Dressed in a cotton white garment, Dasa is in charge of various tasks: overseeing the livelihood of the cows, watching over the property, welcoming and directing visitors. —Stephanie Lam, The Mercury News, 23 Mar. 2025

The majority of the population is dependent on subsistence farming for their livelihoods, both personal and economic. —Stephanie Edwards, Discover Magazine, 19 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

alteration of Middle English livelode course of life, from Old English līflād, from līf + lād course — more at lode

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for livelihood

• misunderstood
• unlikelihood
• adulthood
• babyhood
• brotherhood
• cottonwood
• fatherhood
• firewood
• fuelwood
• hardihood
• ironwood
• leatherwood

Kids Definition

livelihood

noun

live·​li·​hood ˈlīv-lē-ˌhu̇d 

: living entry 2 sense 3