1
: a line (such as a rope) used for saving or preserving life: such as
a
: a line along the outer edge of the deck of a boat or ship
b
: a line used to keep contact with a person (such as a diver or astronaut) in a dangerous or potentially dangerous situation
2
: something regarded as indispensable for the maintaining or protection of life
Examples of lifeline in a Sentence
The river is the town's lifeline.
The new jobs were an economic lifeline for a city in need of help.
The radio was their lifeline to the outside world.
They threw a lifeline to the man overboard.
Recent Examples on the Web
It's been a lifeline for just under 4,000 patients, who are now unsure of how the center will be funded.
—
Sarah Baniak, ABC News, 6 June 2025
In a landscape where drug affordability is a growing challenge, these solutions present a lifeline—better ensuring more individuals can prioritize their health without sacrificing financial security.
—Alexandra Robertson, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025
Like Invest in Kids, this initiative would offer families a lifeline if their public school isn’t meeting their child’s needs.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 5 June 2025
With Hollywood already moving toward an all-franchises-all-the-time philosophy, Cruise’s sole movie series became his lifeline.
—Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 5 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for lifeline
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Sarah Baniak, ABC News, 6 June 2025
In a landscape where drug affordability is a growing challenge, these solutions present a lifeline—better ensuring more individuals can prioritize their health without sacrificing financial security.
—Alexandra Robertson, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025
Like Invest in Kids, this initiative would offer families a lifeline if their public school isn’t meeting their child’s needs.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 5 June 2025
With Hollywood already moving toward an all-franchises-all-the-time philosophy, Cruise’s sole movie series became his lifeline.
—Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 5 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for lifeline
Cite this Entry
“Lifeline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lifeline. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
lifeline
noun
life·line
ˈlī-ˌflīn 
1
: a line persons may hang on to for safety or rescue
2
: something providing help or support that is needed for success or survival
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