life preserver

noun

1. a buoyant jacket, belt, or other like device for keeping a person afloat.

2. British Slang.,  a weapon, especially a short stick with a weighted head; blackjack.

life preserver

noun

1. a club or bludgeon, esp one kept for self-defence

2. a life belt or life jacket

Word History and Origins

Origin of life preserver¹

First recorded in 1630–40

Related Words

• life jacket 
• life vest