safety net

noun

: something that provides security against misfortune or difficulty

Examples of safety net in a Sentence

The program provides a safety net for people who have lost their jobs.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Most people are left to cobble together care with out-of-pocket spending and fragile safety nets. Thomas McInerney, Fortune, 19 Dec. 2025 But none stressed me with such zeal as Byrne’s Linda, a woman so consistently pushed to the edge with no safety net to speak of. Angelica Jade Bastién, Vulture, 19 Dec. 2025 Everybody wants a little bit of a safety net at Christmas. Anna Halkidis, Parents, 18 Dec. 2025 YouTube is a bit of a safety net even in years where the winners might not be the most ratings-baity. Pete Hammond, Deadline, 17 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for safety net

Word History

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of safety net was in 1877

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Cite this Entry

“Safety net.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/safety%20net. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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