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
In the following months, the Rotary Connection, which is operated by Fellowship Recovery Community Organization, has emerged as a lifeline for the city’s homeless population.
—
Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 14 Jan. 2026
Eyes on downtown City and business officials jumped in to help preserve the store — and it was given a lifeline that was later extended as its future is under discussion.
—Brian Womack, Dallas Morning News, 14 Jan. 2026
That timeout was their lifeline, their only chance to get the ball back if the play failed.
—Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 13 Jan. 2026
In a wildfire, that car might be your only lifeline.
—Gio Insignares, CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for lifeline
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Cite this Entry
“Lifeline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lifeline. Accessed 19 Jan. 2026.
Kids 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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