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lifespan
noun
life·span
ˈlīf-ˌspan
variants
or less commonly life span
plural lifespans also life-spans
1
: the average length of life of a kind of organism or of a material object especially in a particular environment or under specified circumstances
2
: the duration of existence of an individual
Synonyms
Examples of lifespan in a Sentence
the average lifespan of house cats
increase the human lifespan
Recent Examples on the Web
Since then, the Highlander has combined typical Toyota quality with the aggressive use cases seen by popular family cars to deliver among the highest vehicle lifespans in the industry.
—Karl Brauer, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025
It is recommended to use water only in the reservoir of the steam mop since harsh cleaning chemicals or abrasive solutions can affect the mechanics and the lifespan of the steam mop.
—Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 15 Jan. 2025
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Trump’s first term did real, not imaginary, damage.
—Dp Opinion, The Denver Post, 15 Jan. 2025
The average lifespan for male orcas is 30 to 60 years, with females living 50 to 90 years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
—Paloma Chavez, Sacramento Bee, 15 Jan. 2025
Deals on Woot have a very short lifespan and only last for a limited time or as soon as a product sells out (usually the latter).
—Gabriela Vatu, PCMAG, 13 Jan. 2025
The lifespan of a dental filling varies among different types of fillings.
—Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 10 Jan. 2025
Shelf-stable foods last a long time at cooler temperatures, but that lifespan can shorten considerably in the heat.
—Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 8 Jan. 2025
Whether or not either of these two quarterbacks are worth a top-two selection, let alone a trade-up for one of these top two picks, a new quarterback can often extend the lifespan of a General Manager.
—Tyler Small, Forbes, 7 Jan. 2025
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Word History
First Known Use
1831, in the meaning defined at sense 2
Dictionary Entries Near lifespan
Cite this Entry
“Lifespan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lifespan. Accessed 2 Feb. 2025.
Kids Definition
life span
noun
: the average length of life of a living thing or of the persistence of a material object under specified circumstances or in a particular environment
Medical Definition
life span
noun1
: the duration of existence of an individual
2
: the average length of life of a kind of organism or of a material object especially in a particular environment or under specified circumstances
More from Merriam-Webster on lifespan
Britannica English: Translation of lifespan for Arabic Speakers
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