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

But it can be a lifeline for those needing less expensive housing.

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When the FDA rejects a drug for “insufficient” efficacy, it often removes a lifeline for patients who don’t respond to other treatments.

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It is still the top individual destination and remittances are an economic lifeline in the poorest parts of the region.

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In the book, Maggie has lost her medical licence after a series of tragedies, but is thrown a lifeline by a former colleague.

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And the Socialists, who threw a lifeline in the no-confidence motions, have made clear they will not be so indulgent next time round.

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