Lifeboat
/ˈlaɪfboʊt/
Definitions
A small boat carried by a ship for use in emergency situations, such as when the ship is sinking or on fire, to rescue people from the ship.
/ˈlaɪfboʊt/
A small boat designed for saving people from a ship in danger.
The crew launched the lifeboats as the ship began to sink.
💡 Simply: Imagine a big ship getting in trouble! A lifeboat is like a rescue boat that helps people get to safety when the big ship is sinking. It's small and designed to float and keep people safe.
👶 For kids: A lifeboat is a little boat that helps people get away from a sinking ship.
More Examples
Everyone was instructed to put on their life jackets and board the lifeboats.
The survivors were rescued by a passing ship and brought ashore after spending days in a lifeboat.
How It's Used
"The passengers and crew were evacuated into the lifeboats after the ship hit an iceberg."
"Lifeboats are a crucial part of a ship's safety equipment."
Idioms & expressions
abandon ship
To leave a situation or project, often in a hurry or due to danger
"The crew had to abandon ship due to the storm."
From "life" + "boat". The term originated in the 19th century as a safety vessel on ships.
The term 'lifeboat' has been used since the early 19th century, coinciding with the increased emphasis on maritime safety and improvements in ship design.
Memory tip
Think of a boat that saves lives.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: life + boat