safety net

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.

safety net

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

Other Words From

• safety-net adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of safety net¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

President-elect Donald Trump and his advisers are eyeing major cuts to federal safety net programs like Medicaid and food stamps to balance the cost of their massive tax agenda, The Washington Post reported Monday.

From Salon

Some people say they actively seek out these establishments when arranging dates or nights out, viewing the scheme as a safety net after undergoing traumatic experiences in the past.

From BBC

St. Denis is a “small regional hospital” somewhere in Oregon, an underfunded “safety net” institution where everyone is treated and no one gets asked for their insurance.

From Los Angeles Times

These voters were left-leaning on cultural issues and supportive of an active federal government and a strong social safety net.

From BBC

The social safety net will be gutted even more — this will include de facto cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, as well as overturning the Affordable Care Act.

From Salon