livelihood

noun

live·​li·​hood ˈlīv-lē-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce livelihood (audio)
1
: means of support or subsistence (see subsistence sense 2)
The villagers' main livelihood is fishing.
2
obsolete : the quality or state of being lively

Examples of livelihood in a Sentence

Many fishermen believe that the new regulations threaten their livelihoods.
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.
People’s livelihoods, futures and trust are on the line. Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025 But whereas the first generation of Chinese entrepreneurs grew up poor and were happy to wring a livelihood from cheap imitations, today’s tech graduates were spared the privations of their parents and yearn for something more meaningful. Charlie Campbell, Time, 29 May 2025 But as millions left behind their livelihoods in search of clearer skies, their vehicles were loaded up with not only precious memories but critical disaster supplies. Zach Covey, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 May 2025 There is value to exploration of these minor and likely temporary environmental advantages against the significant co-costs to labor, livelihoods, and the broader sustainable transition. Tom Rogers, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for livelihood

Word History

Etymology

alteration of Middle English livelode course of life, from Old English līflād, from līf + lād course — more at lode

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of livelihood was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Livelihood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/livelihood. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

livelihood

noun
live·​li·​hood ˈlīv-lē-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce livelihood (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on livelihood

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