Lifeline
/ˈlaɪfˌlaɪn/noun
A means of support or assistance in times of difficulty.
Did you know?The term 'lifeline' connects to nautical origins, where ropes were crucial for survival at sea, symbolizing the thin line between life and death.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*gʷei-
“to live, be alive, or breathe”
Old English
Old English
līf
“life, existence, or living being”
Middle English
Middle English
lif
“the state of being alive, life”
16th Century
English
life line
“a line or rope used for rescue or support in emergencies”
19th Century
English
lifeline
“a figurative or literal rope offering support or aid in distress”