lifesaver

noun

life·​sav·​er ˈlīf-ˌsā-vər How to pronounce lifesaver (audio)
1
: one trained to save lives of drowning persons
2
: one that is at once timely and effective in time of distress or need

Examples of lifesaver in a Sentence

a surgical procedure that has been a lifesaver for many people This multipurpose tool can be a real lifesaver when something needs fixing. Frozen dinners can be lifesavers for busy parents. Thanks so much for offering to help. You're a real lifesaver!
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Still, very impressive and lifesaver to the spring box office. — Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 17 May 2026 Kelly Jarvis said paid leave for her husband, who didn’t get any at his job at a grocery store, would have been a lifesaver. — Michael Cuglietta, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 May 2026 The wrinkle-resistant fabric is a lifesaver when living out of a suitcase. — Becca Blond, Travel + Leisure, 26 June 2026 This portable cleaner is truly a lifesaver. — Madeline Merinuk, PEOPLE, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for lifesaver

Word History

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lifesaver was in 1887

Rhymes for lifesaver

See All Rhymes for lifesaver

Browse Nearby Words

liferoot
lifesaver
lifesaving
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lifesaver.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lifesaver. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

lifesaver

noun
life·​sav·​er ˈlīf-ˌsā-vər How to pronounce lifesaver (audio)
1
: a person trained to save the lives of drowning persons
2
: something that relieves distress when most needed

More from Merriam-Webster on lifesaver

Nglish: Translation of lifesaver for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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