livelihood

[lahyv-lee-hood]

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

/ ˈlaɪvlɪˌhʊd /

noun

1. occupation or employment

Word History and Origins

Origin of livelihood¹

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.

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

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

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

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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.

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Related Words

• employment 
• income 
• living 
• subsistence 
• sustenance 

When To Use

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.