Meaning & use

lifeline

noun·Everyday

Something regarded as essential, especially a source of help in a crisis, or a rope used for rescue.

See it in a sentence

The small monthly stipend became a lifeline for the family after the factory closed.

Rescuers threw a lifeline to the swimmer struggling against the current.

A note on using this word

Lifeline is often used figuratively for crucial support and literally for a physical rope or cable used in rescue situations.

Words with a similar meaning

mainstaysupport

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Make it your own

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