lifeboat
lifeboat Lexical Profile
lifeboat Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A small, rigid or inflatable boat kept aboard a larger ship for use in emergency evacuation.
"When the cruise liner began taking on water, the captain immediately ordered the crew to lower the lifeboats."
A specially designed, highly seaworthy vessel stationed on land or near the coast, used by rescue services to assist people in distress at sea.
"The volunteer crew launched the lifeboat into the stormy waves to reach the stranded fishing trawler."
Something that provides an escape, rescue, or vital support in a desperate or difficult situation.
"The emergency government loan served as a lifeboat for small businesses struggling during the economic crisis."
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the late 18th century as a compound of 'life' and 'boat' to describe vessels specifically built for rescue operations at sea.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.