View synonyms for

lifeline

[ lahyf-lahyn ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a line, fired across a ship or boat, by means of which a hawser for a breeches buoy may be hauled aboard.
a line or rope for saving life, as one attached to a lifeboat.
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.
a wire safety rope supported by stanchions along the edge of the deck of a yacht.
the line by which a diver is lowered and raised.
any of several anchored lines line used by swimmers for support.
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.
assistance at a critical time.

lifeline

/ ˈ��ɪ��ˌ��ɪ�� /

noun

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

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Word History and Origins

Origin of lifeline¹

First recorded in 1690–1700; life + line ¹

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Phone batteries ran down, TVs were on the blink and for many Spaniards their only lifeline to the outside world was from a car or battery-operated radio, as radio stations soldiered on through the blackout.

From

Zena, 35, is a single mum who described the hub as a "lifeline" for people who are struggling.

From

She is his lifeline to some kind of sanity, but she is so damaged as well and he knows he’s been manipulated by her.

From

The hot meals kitchens have provided a critical lifeline, but they are reaching just half the population with only 25% of daily food needs.

From

Could India hold back or divert the Indus basin's waters, depriving Pakistan of its lifeline?

From

lifelike life list

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