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

As a cop, however, his livelihood is dependent on those who aren’t. — Guy Lodge, Variety, 20 Aug. 2026

Given sufficient time, though, this leads to transformative therapies and inventions that become a part of our well-being and livelihood. — Brendon Davis, Baltimore Sun, 20 Aug. 2026

Abdullatif had a message to those who invaded his family's privacy and livelihoods. — Lesley Marin, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026

But the bond market is already becoming a check on Americans' livelihoods, with the capitalists firmly in charge. — Matt Peterson, CNBC, 18 Aug. 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