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

Free agents such as Kyler Murray, Kirk Cousins, Jimmy Garoppolo, Joe Flacco are all on the downside of their careers, if not on their last lifeline. —Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 12 Mar. 2026

Describe the ideal outcome and give them a deadline and a lifeline. —Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 12 Mar. 2026

Today on the show, the story of a financial lifeline that can turn into a financial choke hold. —Alina Selyukh, NPR, 11 Mar. 2026

Rising gas prices could be a lifeline for EV makers at a time when federal support for green cars has been declining. —Blanca Begert, Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lifeline

• acridine
• alkaline
• andesine
• anodyne
• anticline
• arginine
• asinine
• atropine
• benzidine
• borderline
• byzantine
• calamine

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