livelihood

noun

live·​li·​hood ˈlīv-lē-ˌhu̇d 

1

: means of support or subsistence (see subsistence sense 2)

The villagers' main livelihood is fishing.

2

obsolete : the quality or state of being lively

Examples of livelihood in a Sentence

Many fishermen believe that the new regulations threaten their livelihoods.

Recent Examples on the Web

Until a ceasefire is signed and the US succeeds in brokering a deal among the Gulf states who back Sudan’s opposing forces, Sudan is likely to be locked out of any reconstruction funds that will be essential for stabilizing the country and restoring livelihoods. —Cameron Hudson, semafor.com, 25 Feb. 2026

Now, the 50-year-old Aguirre worries that the bloodshed will deal a blow to her livelihood and change towns like hers. —ABC News, 24 Feb. 2026

On the line, there are 30 people whose jobs and livelihood are at risk. —Hannah Bates, AJC.com, 20 Feb. 2026

To acknowledge the troubling, shameful aspects of American history is not to denigrate the Founders but to see them, and the others who made their livelihoods possible, as people. —Adam Harris, The Atlantic, 19 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

alteration of Middle English livelode course of life, from Old English līflād, from līf + lād course — more at lode

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for livelihood

• misunderstood
• unlikelihood
• adulthood
• babyhood
• brotherhood
• cottonwood
• fatherhood
• firewood
• fuelwood
• hardihood
• ironwood
• leatherwood

Kids Definition

livelihood

noun

live·​li·​hood ˈlīv-lē-ˌhu̇d 

: living entry 2 sense 3