lifespan

noun

life·​span ˈlīf-ˌspan 

variants or less commonly life span

plural lifespans also life-spans

1

: the average length of life of a kind of organism or of a material object especially in a particular environment or under specified circumstances

2

: the duration of existence of an individual

Synonyms of lifespan

• duration
• life
• lifetime
• time

Examples of lifespan in a Sentence

the average lifespan of house cats

increase the human lifespan

Recent Examples on the Web

Improving one’s health and wellness seemed like a tangible response to the Covid crisis, especially for those with the time and resources to devote to extending their lifespan. — Tori Latham, Robb Report, 8 Aug. 2026

For the current group of people reaching the age to begin receiving Social Security payments, Schneider said the average lifespan is 88. — Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026

Health and behavior across the entire lifespan contribute to a person’s risk of eventually developing dementia. — Kathleen Felton, Time, 7 Aug. 2026

Regular cleaning helps your AC work less hard, lowering energy use and extending its lifespan. — Abby Monteil, The Spruce, 6 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for lifespan

• businessman
• canavan
• caravan
• constantan
• dragoman
• fisherman
• handyman
• harmattan
• journeyman
• marianne
• middleman
• minivan

Kids Definition

life span

noun

: the average length of life of a living thing or of the persistence of a material object under specified circumstances or in a particular environment

Medical Definition

lifespan

noun

ˈlīf-ˌspan 

variants also life span

1

: the duration of existence of an individual

2

: the average length of life of a kind of organism or of a material object especially in a particular environment or under specified circumstances