Lifeline: meaning, definitions and examples

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lifeline

 

[ ˈlaɪflaɪn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

emergency situation

A lifeline is a line thrown to someone in danger, such as a person overboard from a ship, to provide assistance and prevent drowning.

Synonyms

rescue line, safety line, throw line

Examples of usage

  • The sailor caught the lifeline just in time and was pulled back on board.
  • The lifeline was crucial in saving the hiker who had fallen off the cliff.
Context #2 | Noun

support or guidance

In a metaphorical sense, a lifeline can also refer to a source of support or guidance during a difficult time.

Synonyms

guidance, help, support

Examples of usage

  • Her best friend was her lifeline during the breakup, always there to listen and offer advice.
  • The local community center serves as a lifeline for many residents, providing resources and assistance.

Translations

Translations of the word "lifeline" in other languages:

🇵🇹 linha de vida

🇮🇳 जीवनरेखा

🇩🇪 Lebenslinie

🇮🇩 garis kehidupan

🇺🇦 рятувальна лінія

🇵🇱 linia życia

🇯🇵 ライフライン

🇫🇷 ligne de vie

🇪🇸 línea de vida

🇹🇷 hayat hattı

🇰🇷 생명선

🇸🇦 خط الحياة

🇨🇿 životní linie

🇸🇰 životná línia

🇨🇳 生命线

🇸🇮 življenjska linija

🇮🇸 lífslína

🇰🇿 өмір желісі

🇬🇪 ცხოვრების ხაზი

🇦🇿 həyat xətti

🇲🇽 línea de vida

Word origin

The term lifeline has nautical origins, where a line was thrown to rescue someone in distress at sea. Over time, the term has evolved to represent any form of support or assistance in times of need. The concept of a lifeline is universal, emphasizing the importance of reaching out for help or providing aid to others in challenging situations.

See also: afterlife, alive, life, lifebuoy, lifeless, lifelessly, lifelessness, lifelong, lifemode, lifesaver, lifespan, lifestyle, lifetime, lifeway.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,492, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.