lifer

noun

lif·​er ˈlī-fər How to pronounce lifer (audio)
1
: a person sentenced to imprisonment for life
2
: a person who makes a career of one of the armed forces
3
: a person who has made a lifelong commitment (as to a way of life)

Examples of lifer in a Sentence

He was a lifer at the factory.
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.
As David prepares for 2025, the Bucs lifer has a chance to make more team history. Jeff Howe, The Athletic, 8 Mar. 2025 In addition to the van lifers who are camping out, Theberge said the event will welcome 1,000-2,000 visitors with day passes. Patrick Connolly, Orlando Sentinel, 5 Mar. 2025 The head coach is a football lifer still being asked to justify his spot on the sideline. John Romano, Orlando Sentinel, 30 Dec. 2024 However, football lifer Dan Quinn knew not to thrust the rookie quarterback into a leadership role regardless. Ben Standig, The Athletic, 27 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for lifer

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lifer was in 1827

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lifer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lifer. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

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