livelihood

noun

live·​li·​hood ˈlīv-lē-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce livelihood (audio)
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
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.
In April 2024, as the oceans started simmering, 77 percent of the world’s coral reefs became imperiled in the most extensive bleaching event on record, threatening the livelihoods of a billion people and a quarter of marine life. Sachi Kitajima Mulkey / Grist, Popular Science, 30 Jan. 2025 But how do the people whose lives and livelihoods depend on the mountain feel about Denali’s name change? Jayme Moye, Outside Online, 24 Jan. 2025 Amid the ongoing natural disaster, tourists are urged to continue booking accommodations, eating at local restaurants and shopping at small businesses to support the livelihoods of residents in the area. Natalia Senanayake, People.com, 24 Jan. 2025 Many of these vineyards have been cared for by generations of small family winemakers around the world, who rely on them for their livelihood. Liz Thach, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for livelihood 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of livelihood was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near livelihood

Cite this Entry

“Livelihood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/livelihood. Accessed 2 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

livelihood

noun
live·​li·​hood ˈlīv-lē-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce livelihood (audio)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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