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

However, the single mom of two saw her livelihood flash before her eyes when she was laid off after the company stopped production. —Essence, 14 Jan. 2026

At the heart of this tradition are the auctioneers, whose skill can determine not only the outcome of a sale but also the livelihoods of the exhibitors. —Jessica Alvarado Gamez, Denver Post, 13 Jan. 2026

In addition to callous disregard for former Marylanders’ livelihoods and well-being, by not maintaining the voter rolls, the State Board of Elections disrespects every single Marylander who has a right to vote. —Nicolee Ambrose, Baltimore Sun, 13 Jan. 2026

Supply challenges, rising costs, bureaucratic red tape, and government inefficiencies all threaten their livelihoods. —Tom Grech, New York Daily News, 10 Jan. 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