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 Reefs’ disappearance would have profound effects on tens of millions of people who rely on the ecosystems for their livelihoods. Christian Thorsberg, Smithsonian Magazine, 17 Apr. 2024 The tragedy has also halted cargo shipments in the area and impacted the livelihoods of thousands of workers in and around the Port of Baltimore. Evan Perez, CNN, 15 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for livelihood 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'livelihood.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near livelihood

Cite this Entry

“Livelihood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/livelihood. Accessed 5 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

livelihood

noun
live·​li·​hood ˈlīv-lē-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce livelihood (audio)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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