life-threatening

adjective

life-threat·​en·​ing ˈlīf-ˌthre-tᵊn-iŋ How to pronounce life-threatening (audio)
-ˌthret-niŋ
: capable of causing death : potentially fatal
a life-threatening disease/condition
The injuries are serious but not life-threatening.

Examples of life-threatening in a Sentence

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.
Since more than 60% of severe reactions occur outside the safety of the home kitchen, this portable device could serve as a vital protective measure, providing an easy way to mitigate life-threatening risks in unpredictable environments. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 6 Jan. 2026 But surviving a life-threatening health scare is really what makes owners Mario and Maya Palazon value the steady stream of customers coming through the door at their new FreshCo Fish Grill & Market in Downtown Doral. Miami Herald, 6 Jan. 2026 The meningococcal and hepatitis A and B vaccines also protect against serious and potentially life-threatening disease. Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 6 Jan. 2026 Officers shot the suspect, described as a man in his 40s, who was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries, according to Santiago. Jose R. Gonzalez, AZCentral.com, 6 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for life-threatening

Word History

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of life-threatening was in 1759

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Cite this Entry

“Life-threatening.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/life-threatening. Accessed 8 Jan. 2026.

Medical Definition

life-threatening

adjective
life-threat·​en·​ing ˈlīf-ˌthret-ən-iŋ How to pronounce life-threatening (audio)
: capable of causing death : potentially fatal
life-threatening injuries
a life-threatening allergic reaction
life-threatening arrhythmia
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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