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Synonyms

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

livelihood British  
/ ˈlaɪvlɪˌhʊd /

noun

  1. occupation or employment

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Reliable sea ice forecasts can support both traditional livelihoods and modern industries that operate in or near Arctic waters.

From Science Daily

On opposite sides of the makeshift barricade, fronted by coils of barbed wire, Cambodians lamented their lost homes and livelihoods as Thailand's military showed off its gains.

From Barron's

“This is my livelihood,” said Kiki Polo, 55, who is a photographer in Los Angeles.

From The Wall Street Journal

The lawmakers’ letter raises a series of questions surrounding the livelihood of creators, the use of AI and “concrete steps” about preserving jobs in L.A.

From Los Angeles Times

"I simply just can't imagine that," he said, recalling that his livelihood is already threatened by climate change.

From Barron's