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

"They offer cost-effective protection to coastal communities and support national wealth by preserving lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure."

From Science Daily

"Coconuts and coconut trees are deeply woven into the lives and livelihoods of Pacific peoples and communities, symbolizing resilience, and sustenance" said Elizabeth Terk, Micronesia conservation director for The Nature Conservancy.

From Science Daily

But it is more than just a meal, it is some people's livelihood and a pathway to financial autonomy for many women.

From BBC

There are many regions of the world where people are still suffering from acute food insecurity, defined as hunger so severe that it poses an immediate threat to people's livelihoods and lives.

From Salon

In March, Dan Green, agriculture director for British Sugar, said the pesticide was needed "to protect the UK sugar beet crop and farmer livelihoods".

From BBC

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.