lifespan

noun

life·​span ˈlīf-ˌspan How to pronounce lifespan (audio)
variants or less commonly life span
plural lifespans also life-spans
1
: the average length of life of a kind of organism or of a material object especially in a particular environment or under specified circumstances
2
: the duration of existence of an individual

Examples of lifespan in a Sentence

the average lifespan of house cats increase the human lifespan
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Since then, the Highlander has combined typical Toyota quality with the aggressive use cases seen by popular family cars to deliver among the highest vehicle lifespans in the industry. Karl Brauer, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025 It is recommended to use water only in the reservoir of the steam mop since harsh cleaning chemicals or abrasive solutions can affect the mechanics and the lifespan of the steam mop. Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 15 Jan. 2025 Related Articles Colorado’s historic wolf reintroduction faces barrage of challenges 1 year after first paws hit the ground Colorado dogs take part in clinical trial for new drug that could extend their lifespan Trump’s first term did real, not imaginary, damage. Dp Opinion, The Denver Post, 15 Jan. 2025 The average lifespan for male orcas is 30 to 60 years, with females living 50 to 90 years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Paloma Chavez, Sacramento Bee, 15 Jan. 2025 Deals on Woot have a very short lifespan and only last for a limited time or as soon as a product sells out (usually the latter). Gabriela Vatu, PCMAG, 13 Jan. 2025 The lifespan of a dental filling varies among different types of fillings. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 10 Jan. 2025 Shelf-stable foods last a long time at cooler temperatures, but that lifespan can shorten considerably in the heat. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 8 Jan. 2025 Whether or not either of these two quarterbacks are worth a top-two selection, let alone a trade-up for one of these top two picks, a new quarterback can often extend the lifespan of a General Manager. Tyler Small, Forbes, 7 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of lifespan was in 1831

Dictionary Entries Near lifespan

Cite this Entry

“Lifespan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lifespan. Accessed 2 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

life span

noun
: the average length of life of a living thing or of the persistence of a material object under specified circumstances or in a particular environment

Medical Definition

life span

noun
1
: the duration of existence of an individual
2
: the average length of life of a kind of organism or of a material object especially in a particular environment or under specified circumstances

More from Merriam-Webster on lifespan

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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