silver lining

noun

: a consoling or hopeful prospect

Examples of silver lining in a Sentence

If there's a silver lining to losing my job, it's that I'll now be able to go to school full-time and finish my degree earlier.
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.
However, the silver lining is that a potential Rodgers’ absence would present opportunities for the other two quarterbacks. Mike Defabo, New York Times, 22 May 2025 One silver lining of Covid was that many workshops and classes that were held in person are now also offered online or only online such as Sounds True or Sage-ing International. Lessons. Jann E. Freed, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025 The Rockies found a silver lining in 34-year-old DH Nick Martini, who launched his first homer of the year off Phillies starter Tajuan Walker in the fourth and followed with a double off the wall in the ninth. Luca Evans, Denver Post, 21 May 2025 While a superficial view might see an environmental silver lining, a deeper look reveals these benefits are overshadowed by detrimental economic and long-term environmental progress impacts. Tom Rogers, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for silver lining

Word History

Etymology

from the phrase "every cloud has a silver lining"

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of silver lining was in 1871

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Cite this Entry

“Silver lining.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/silver%20lining. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

silver lining

noun
: a consoling or hopeful prospect
looked for the silver lining in a bad situation
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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