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
Examples of lifespan in a Sentence
the average lifespan of house cats
increase the human lifespan
Recent Examples on the Web
In addition, several finalists highlight ways to extend garment lifespans, such as repair networks, digital product passports and resale infrastructure.
—
Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 5 Mar. 2026
While the temporary jail facility is expected to be used as a temporary jail for three to five years, its structures could have a lifespan of 25 years or more.
—Ben Wheeler, Kansas City Star, 5 Mar. 2026
Annuals give their all during their short lifespan.
—Lauren David, Southern Living, 5 Mar. 2026
With a continuous power supply in orbit, this technology could extend the lifespan and range of exploration missions, like future lunar bases and global space internet networks.
—Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 4 Mar. 2026
This project will perform ground stabilization and replace critical bridge components, extending the lifespan of the bridge and ensuring long-term structural integrity.
—Brian Sherrod, CBS News, 4 Mar. 2026
Even with this careful design, modular batteries introduce technical considerations that must be managed, particularly when integrating different modules over the vehicle’s lifespan.
—IEEE Spectrum, 4 Mar. 2026
But dogs’ lifespans are only a fraction of the average human lifespan.
—Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 3 Mar. 2026
Lots of studies point to a longer lifespan for people who exercise regularly.
—Allison Aubrey, NPR, 2 Mar. 2026
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 5 Mar. 2026
While the temporary jail facility is expected to be used as a temporary jail for three to five years, its structures could have a lifespan of 25 years or more.
—Ben Wheeler, Kansas City Star, 5 Mar. 2026
Annuals give their all during their short lifespan.
—Lauren David, Southern Living, 5 Mar. 2026
With a continuous power supply in orbit, this technology could extend the lifespan and range of exploration missions, like future lunar bases and global space internet networks.
—Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 4 Mar. 2026
This project will perform ground stabilization and replace critical bridge components, extending the lifespan of the bridge and ensuring long-term structural integrity.
—Brian Sherrod, CBS News, 4 Mar. 2026
Even with this careful design, modular batteries introduce technical considerations that must be managed, particularly when integrating different modules over the vehicle’s lifespan.
—IEEE Spectrum, 4 Mar. 2026
But dogs’ lifespans are only a fraction of the average human lifespan.
—Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 3 Mar. 2026
Lots of studies point to a longer lifespan for people who exercise regularly.
—Allison Aubrey, NPR, 2 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Lifespan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lifespan. Accessed 8 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
lifespan
noun
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
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