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

: life history sense 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

Older leaves on the bottom of the orchid can yellow, soften, and die as part of the normal life cycle, Kondrat explains. —Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Jan. 2026

The garden, says Joffe, is a haven for biodiversity, filled with plants that support the full life cycles of butterflies and bees. —Jessica Gelt, Los Angeles Times, 14 Jan. 2026

Understanding the scam life cycle is essential to crafting durable policy. —Caroline Melear, Oc Register, 13 Jan. 2026

Also, as a part of it, no more than 30% of vehicles could be in use beyond their life cycles. —Lauren Linder, CBS News, 12 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for life cycle

• recycle
• motorcycle

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

: life history sense 1

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

: life history sense 1a