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

Those communities that built their economies around film production are now watching that lifeline slip away overseas. — Sam Roseme, HollywoodReporter, 5 Sep. 2026

Cairo and Beijing are expanding a sweeping partnership — from BRICS membership and Belt and Road megaprojects to new military exercises — as Egypt seeks economic lifelines and strategic leverage beyond Washington. — Samy Magdy, Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026

But today, two Democrats threw their colleagues across the aisle a legislative lifeline. — Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2026

The lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. — Jessie Balmert, Cincinnati Enquirer, 1 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lifeline

• alkaline
• andesine
• anodyne
• anticline
• arginine
• asinine
• benzidine
• borderline
• byzantine
• calamine
• caroline
• centerline

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