lifeline

noun

life·​line ˈlīf-ˌlīn 

1

: a line (such as a rope) used for saving or preserving life: such as

a

: a line along the outer edge of the deck of a boat or ship

b

: a line used to keep contact with a person (such as a diver or astronaut) in a dangerous or potentially dangerous situation

2

: something regarded as indispensable for the maintaining or protection of life

Examples of lifeline in a Sentence

The river is the town's lifeline.

The new jobs were an economic lifeline for a city in need of help.

The radio was their lifeline to the outside world.

They threw a lifeline to the man overboard.

Recent Examples on the Web

These first-time homebuyer down payment assistance programs are a lifeline for Sacramento hopefuls. —Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 10 June 2026

The bottom line Social Security Disability Insurance can provide a vital financial lifeline for workers who can no longer earn a living because of a serious medical condition. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 10 June 2026

China has long been North Korea’s principal economic lifeline and most important diplomatic partner. —Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 9 June 2026

With its stock price sliding and its time below $1 a share dragging on, AI Financial and its investors need a lifeline. —Matt Peterson, CNBC, 9 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lifeline

• alkaline
• andesine
• anodyne
• anticline
• arginine
• asinine
• benzidine
• borderline
• byzantine
• calamine
• caroline
• centerline

Kids Definition

lifeline

noun

life·​line ˈlī-ˌflīn 

1

: a line persons may hang on to for safety or rescue

2

: something providing help or support that is needed for success or survival