Lifeline - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A lifeline is a vital support or means of survival, often used metaphorically to describe something essential, like a rescue rope or a crucial resource in difficult situations.
Definition:
A means of support or escape in difficult situations, often vital for survival.
Synonyms:
safety net, support, rescue, salvation
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
hazard, danger
Common Collocations:
throw a lifeline, financial lifeline, emotional lifeline
Derivatives:
lifelines, lifelining
Usage Tips:
Use "lifeline" metaphorically for essential support or literally for rescue equipment like ropes or buoys.
Common Phrases:
throw someone a lifeline, clutch at a lifeline, last lifeline
Etymology:
Derived from "life" + "line," first used in the 19th century for nautical rescue ropes.
Examples:
- 1. She grabbed the lifeline as the boat capsized.
- 2. The scholarship was her lifeline to education.
- 3. He offered a financial lifeline during her crisis.
- 4. The phone call felt like a desperate lifeline.