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

Its goal is to divert 800,000 kilograms of post-consumer textile waste and support 500 waste picker livelihoods by 2026. —Jennifer Bringle, Sourcing Journal, 12 Sep. 2025

Local governments and emergency response personnel have worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and livelihoods of residents, Libal said. —Claudia Levens, jsonline.com, 11 Sep. 2025

Such initiatives reflect how green finance is not only transforming rural livelihoods but also advancing Mongolia’s broader national strategy for sustainable, inclusive growth. —Munkhtuya Rentsenbat, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025

Jake’s reputation and livelihood are at stake. —Judy Berman, Time, 7 Sep. 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