life cycle

noun

1
: the series of stages in form and functional activity through which an organism passes between successive recurrences of a specified primary stage
2
3
: a series of stages through which something (such as an individual, culture, or manufactured product) passes during its lifetime

Examples of life cycle in a Sentence

the life cycle of a shark
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Removing this debris prematurely can disrupt or destroy their life cycles. Chris McKeown, Cincinnati Enquirer, 18 Oct. 2025 When stressed, injured, or aging, this tiny hydrozoan, Turritopsis dohrnii, can reverse its life cycle. Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2025 Beyond advancing circular fashion and its positive environmental impact, resale represents a smart business decision for brands, extending product life cycles, reaching new consumers, and strengthening long-term brand value. Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 9 Oct. 2025 Its integrated two-way data transfer allows users to exchange files of any size without leaving the platform’s secure environment, simplifying and connecting all phases of a production’s life cycle. Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 8 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for life cycle

Word History

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of life cycle was in 1855

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Life cycle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/life%20cycle. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

life cycle

noun
1
: the series of stages of form and activity through which a living thing passes from a beginning stage (as an egg) in one individual to the same stage in its offspring
2

Medical Definition

life cycle

noun
1
: the series of stages in form and functional activity through which an organism passes between successive recurrences of a specified primary stage
2

More from Merriam-Webster on life cycle

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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