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

The crater’s breathtaking landscape also supports eco-tourism and local livelihoods, contributing to Ghana’s economic development while maintaining exceptional aesthetic value. —Marian Selorm Sapah, Space.com, 2 Aug. 2025

Others feared the move would also negatively impact the livelihoods of photographers, makeup artists and other creatives traditionally involved in creating a campaign. —Kati Chitrakorn, CNN Money, 31 July 2025

The goal of the new law was to enable employees to provide physical and mental safety and care for themselves or a family member victimized by violence without risking their livelihoods. —Dan Eaton, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 July 2025

But there are also significant cultural reasons, with children seen as important contributors to household livelihoods and carers of parents in old age. —Jordan King john Feng, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 July 2025

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