lifeline

views updated May 23 2018

life·line / ˈlīfˌlīn/ • n. 1. a rope or line used for life-saving, typically one thrown to rescue someone in difficulties in water or one used by sailors to secure themselves to a boat. ∎  a line used by a diver for sending signals to the surface. ∎ fig. a thing that is essential for the continued existence of someone or something or that provides a means of escape from a difficult situation: fertility treatment can seem like a lifeline to childless couples.2. (in palmistry) a line on the palm of a person's hand, regarded as indicating how long they will live.PHRASES: throw a lifeline to (or throw someone a lifeline) provide (someone) with a means of escaping from a difficult situation.

More From encyclopedia.com