lifeline

[ lahyf-lahyn ]

noun

1. a line, fired across a ship or boat, by means of which a hawser for a breeches buoy may be hauled aboard.
2. a line or rope for saving life, as one attached to a lifeboat.
3. any of various lines line running above the decks, spars, etc., of a ship or boat to give sailors something to grasp when there is danger of falling or being washed away.
4. a wire safety rope supported by stanchions along the edge of the deck of a yacht.
5. the line by which a diver is lowered and raised.
6. any of several anchored lines line used by swimmers for support.
7. a route or means of transportation or communication for receiving or delivering food, medicine, or assistance:

   This road is the town's lifeline and must be kept open despite the snow.

8. assistance at a critical time.

lifeline

/ ˈlaɪfˌlaɪn /

noun

1. a line thrown or fired aboard a vessel for hauling in a hawser for a breeches buoy
2. any rope or line attached to a vessel or trailed from it for the safety of passengers, crew, swimmers, etc
3. a line by which a deep-sea diver is raised or lowered
4. a vital line of access or communication

Word History and Origins

Origin of lifeline¹

First recorded in 1690–1700; life + line ¹

Example Sentences

The Ask for Angela initiative, a not-for-profit project in place at thousands of venues nationwide, aims to provide a discreet lifeline for people who believe they are in danger.

From BBC

After his father died two years ago, he said rugby was a lifeline.

From BBC

For the three Baltic states that broke free of the Soviet Union to join the EU and Nato, Rail Baltica could serve as a lifeline - if it manages to stay on track.

From BBC

Jon added being able to show Wales' games via S4C was a "lifeline".

From BBC

But it’s unlikely that Trump would throw the film and TV business a lifeline, especially in any way that could help Newsom and deep-blue California.

From Los Angeles Times