noun
lifesaver
LYF-say-vuh
Lifesaver (noun) means someone or something that saves a person's life, especially by rescue. Example: “The off-duty nurse was a lifesaver after the crash.”
noun
1
Someone or something that saves a person's life, especially by rescue.
"The off-duty nurse was a lifesaver after the crash."
2
Someone or something extremely useful or helpful in a difficult situation.
"This spare charger has been an absolute lifesaver on the trip."
"Her notes were a lifesaver before the exam."
How to use lifesaver
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething (or someone) that rescues you, literally or figuratively.
When to use it
The "hugely helpful" sense is very common in casual speech.
Common pairings
an absolute lifesaver
be a lifesaver
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Word forms
- Plural
- lifesavers
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The off-duty nurse was a _____ after the crash.
Etymology
A compound of life + saver, describing anyone or anything that saves a life — later extended to mean anything hugely helpful.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for lifesaver
See all rhymes for lifesaver →Frequently asked questions
What does “lifesaver” mean?
The word “lifesaver” means someone or something that saves a person's life, especially by rescue. In plain terms, something (or someone) that rescues you, literally or figuratively.
How do you pronounce “lifesaver”?
“Lifesaver” is pronounced LYF-say-vuh (/ˈlaɪfˌseɪvəɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “lifesaver” in a sentence?
Here is “lifesaver” used in a sentence: “The off-duty nurse was a lifesaver after the crash.”
What part of speech is “lifesaver”?
“Lifesaver” is a noun.
How many meanings does “lifesaver” have?
“Lifesaver” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: someone or something that saves a person's life, especially by rescue.
