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

Kucera acknowledged that not every big company executive wants personal protection as some individuals simply feel their livelihoods don't pose a direct risk to themselves or those in their orbit. —Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 7 Dec. 2024

About 35 percent of the community relies on Main Street shops and small businesses for their livelihood. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 5 Dec. 2024

Remember, creators are counting on deals for their livelihood. —Kristen Dolan, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024

By doing this, the brand is combatting the harms of fast fashion by rebalancing the carbon cycle, improving soil health, protecting watersheds, and supporting American farmer livelihoods. —Kelsey Glennon, Travel + Leisure, 1 Dec. 2024

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

Kids Definition

livelihood

noun

live·​li·​hood ˈlīv-lē-ˌhu̇d 

: living entry 2 sense 3