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

Synonyms of lifespan

• duration
• life
• lifetime
• time

Examples of lifespan in a Sentence

the average lifespan of house cats

increase the human lifespan

Recent Examples on the Web

Part of the link between higher protein intake and lower lifespan arises from the role of essential amino acids in our diets. — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 31 July 2026

Moreover, retrofitting existing offshore wind turbines with cable-stay reinforcements offers operators a cost-effective way to extend the lifespan of aging assets. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 31 July 2026

Skipping out on routine maintenance could directly impact your car's lifespan and send it to the junkyard prematurely. — Charles Singh, USA Today, 29 July 2026

Meanwhile, a higher-efficiency model may cost more upfront but could lower operating costs over its lifespan. — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 29 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for lifespan

• businessman
• canavan
• caravan
• constantan
• dragoman
• fisherman
• handyman
• harmattan
• journeyman
• marianne
• middleman
• minivan

Kids Definition

life span

noun

: the average length of life of a living thing or of the persistence of a material object under specified circumstances or in a particular environment

Medical Definition

lifespan

noun

ˈlīf-ˌspan 

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