lifeline

noun

life·​line ˈlīf-ˌlīn 

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

The western coast is where the military campaign will be won or lost; as Iran disrupts shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea has emerged as a vital strategic lifeline for the Gulf. — Melissa Hancock, Fortune, 7 Oct. 2026

But ongoing deportations from the United States threaten to bring these transfers, which are a lifeline for the country’s economy and its people, to a halt. — Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 7 Oct. 2026

Before the medical examiner’s report became public, Lowe’s family did not reveal a cause of death but in its statement mentioned contact information for a mental health lifeline. — Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 2 Oct. 2026

Middleton spent Wednesday with the West Sussex Minibus, which acts as a vital lifeline for people who cannot easily access public transport due to isolation, mobility challenges or financial barriers, and those aided by the organization’s services. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lifeline

• alkaline
• andesine
• anodyne
• anticline
• arginine
• asinine
• benzidine
• borderline
• byzantine
• calamine
• caroline
• centerline

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