safety net

American  

noun

1. a large net rigged between a person, as a trapeze performer, and the ground as protection in a fall.

2. something that provides a margin of protection or security.

   the safety net of federal credit for financial institutions.

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safety net British  

noun

1. a net used in a circus to catch high-wire and trapeze artistes if they fall

2. any means of protection from hardship or loss, such as insurance

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Other Word Forms

• safety-net adjective

Etymology

Origin of safety net

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Having the subsidies as a safety net feels like having a pillar to lean on,” she told Barron’s.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

As health care costs go up, the safety net for Americans living with HIV is getting smaller.

From Salon • Mar. 19, 2026

Leaving care, without a family safety net, has consistently been found to be associated with higher levels of homelessness, unemployment and crime.

From BBC • Mar. 15, 2026

But the U.A.E. also has no social safety net for foreigners.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 6, 2026

Not sure why he needs me anymore—I’m really just a safety net in case he has a question.

From "Linked" by Gordon Korman