safety net

American  

noun

1. a large net rigged between a person, as a trapeze performer, and the ground as protection in a fall.

2. something that provides a margin of protection or security.

   the safety net of federal credit for financial institutions.

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safety net British  

noun

1. a net used in a circus to catch high-wire and trapeze artistes if they fall

2. any means of protection from hardship or loss, such as insurance

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Other Word Forms

• safety-net adjective

Etymology

Origin of safety net

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

He said he believes the Legislature needs to weigh the need to pay survivors against the obligation to keep the social safety net intact.

From Los Angeles Times

A weak social safety net and job market uncertainty have added to consumers’ reluctance to spend.

From The Wall Street Journal

Unlike traditional banks, nonbank mortgage companies lack safety nets like the ability to take out emergency government loans during a crisis.

From The Wall Street Journal

The financial safety net for those at the perimeter of the banking system is expanding, too.

From Barron's

Music Mogul AI arrives as musicians are being asked to juggle creative work with marketing, logistics and data analysis — often without the safety net of a traditional team.

From Los Angeles Times