livelihood

American  

[lahyv-lee-hood] / ˈlaɪv liˌhʊd /

noun

1. a means of supporting one's existence, especially financially or vocationally; living.

   to earn a livelihood as a tenant farmer.

   Synonyms:

   subsistence , sustenance

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livelihood British  

/ ˈlaɪvlɪˌhʊd /

noun

1. occupation or employment

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Usage

What are other ways to say livelihood? A person’s livelihood is their means of supporting existence, especially financially or vocationally. Do you know the difference between livelihood, living, and maintenance? Find out on Thesaurus.com.

Etymology

Origin of livelihood

before 1000; earlier liveliod, livelihod, alteration (by reanalysis as lively + -hood; compare obsolete livelihood liveliness) of Middle English livelod, Old English līflād conduct of life, way of life ( life, lode, load )

Example Sentences

As additional atmospheric CO2 enters the air, it dissolves into the ocean more quickly than anticipated, driving a rapid drop in pH that threatens coastal industries and livelihoods around the world.

From Science Daily

"Our homes and sources of livelihood were destroyed," he told the BBC in September.

From BBC

Their livelihoods encouraged them to live in small, scattered settlements to reduce the effort and time required to reach their fields.

From Science Daily

Crime and policing minister Sarah Jones said rural crime "can wreak havoc on the livelihoods of farmers and countryside communities."

From BBC

Across Central America, Indigenous and local communities are working to restore damaged lands, prevent forest fires, and revive traditional, bird-friendly livelihoods such as sustainable allspice and cacao production.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• employment
• income
• living
• subsistence
• sustenance