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

And for many women, tapping into that passive income could be a real lifeline in a cost-of-living crisis. — Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 3 July 2026

In that vacuum, an always-available chatbot that sounds calm, attentive, and nonjudgmental can feel less like a novelty than a lifeline. — Ryan McBain, STAT, 2 July 2026

But a closer look reveals that this seat for two in Orlando Veterans’ Memorial Park was put there as a lifeline. — Scott Maxwell, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 June 2026

The doctor noted that help from Cubans abroad and from other foreign governments has been the lifeline for the sick, even though the Cuban government itself never acknowledges the assistance. — Sarah Moreno july 1, Miami Herald, 1 July 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