safety net

American  

noun

safety nets plural

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

Derived Forms

• safety-net
  adjective

Inflected Forms

Nouns

• safety nets
  plural

Etymology

Origin of safety net

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

safety net

Some investors still see gold as a safety net, and are keeping it in their portfolios.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 13, 2026

But at least Germany had the safety net of penalties, and could fall back on a perfect 100% World Cup shootout record of played four, won four.

From BBC ● Jun. 30, 2026

“The challenge of loneliness isn’t going anywhere and the social-connection safety net this bill funds is among the best investments we can make for the mental and physical health of our seniors.”

From MarketWatch ● Jun. 19, 2026

Another "safety net" measure gives the European Commission, in charge of EU trade policy, the power to suspend the pact if the United States fails to meet its commitments or disrupts trade and investment.

From Barron's ● Jun. 16, 2026

Not sure why he needs me anymore—I’m really just a safety net in case he has a question.

From "Linked" by Gordon Korman