life expectancy

noun

: the average lifespan of an individual

Examples of life expectancy in a Sentence

improvements in diet that have resulted in greater life expectancy for many people calculating the life expectancies of different social groups
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.
The country’s healthcare infrastructure and consistently high life expectancy continue drawing global attention. Meggen Harris, Forbes.com, 16 May 2026 New research links stronger cardiorespiratory fitness in midlife to longer life expectancy and healthier aging. Sarah Garone, Health, 13 May 2026 Achane, as noted, is a 191-pound running back and the NFL life expectancy of such players isn’t long. Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 13 May 2026 Referring to your previous letter, when Israel controlled Gaza from 1967 to 2005, the average life expectancy went from 48 to 72 years. Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 10 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for life expectancy

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of life expectancy was in 1848

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Cite this Entry

“Life expectancy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/life%20expectancy. Accessed 18 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

life expectancy

noun
: the number of years that an individual or group of a certain age can expect to live on the average based on experience in the past for individuals or groups of the same kind

Medical Definition

life expectancy

noun
: an expected number of years of life based on statistical probability

Legal Definition

life expectancy

noun
: the average life span of an individual

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