- lifeline
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/luyf"luyn'/, n.1. a line, fired across a ship or boat, by means of which a hawser for a breeches buoy may be hauled aboard.2. a line or rope for saving life, as one attached to a lifeboat.3. any of various lines running above the decks, spars, etc., of a ship or boat to give sailors something to grasp when there is danger of falling or being washed away.4. a wire safety rope supported by stanchions along the edge of the deck of a yacht.5. the line by which a diver is lowered and raised.6. any of several anchored lines used by swimmers for support.7. a route or means of transportation or communication for receiving or delivering food, medicine, or assistance: This road is the town's lifeline and must be kept open despite the snow.8. assistance at a critical time.[1690-1700; LIFE + LINE1]
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Universalium. 2010.