Main Entry:

life·line

Pronunciation:

\ˈlīf-ˌlīn\

Function:

noun

Date:

1700

1: a line (as a rope) used for saving or preserving life: 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 (as a diver or astronaut) in a dangerous or potentially dangerous situation 2: something regarded as indispensable for the maintaining or protection of life