Lifetime
ˈlaɪftaɪm
Definitions
2 meaningsThe entire duration of a person's existence, from birth to death.
ˈlaɪftaɪm
The duration of a person's life.
She dedicated her lifetime to helping others.
💡 Simply: Imagine all the years you live on Earth, from when you're born until you're all grown up. That's your lifetime! For example, you might say, "I want to spend my lifetime learning new things."
👶 For kids: The time that a person is alive, from the time they are born until they die.
More Examples
The average lifetime of a butterfly is only a few weeks.
He wanted to make the most of his lifetime.
That invention revolutionized farming in her lifetime.
How It's Used
"He spent his lifetime working on his passion."
"Her lifetime accomplishments were celebrated after her death."
The length of time during which something is functional or effective.
ˈlaɪftaɪm
The period during which something functions or exists.
The warranty covers the product for its lifetime.
💡 Simply: Think about how long your favorite toy or a gadget works. That's its lifetime! For instance, a lightbulb's lifetime might be a year.
👶 For kids: How long something lasts, like a toy or a lightbulb.
More Examples
The lifetime of a car engine depends on maintenance.
The company expects a long lifetime for this new product.
The lifetime of the bridge was estimated at 100 years.
How It's Used
"The lifetime of the battery is significantly improved in the new model."
"The manufacturer guaranteed a lifetime warranty on the product."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
once in a lifetime
Happening only once; very rare or special.
"Winning the lottery is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."
From Old English *līftīma*, a compound of *līf* ('life') and *tīma* ('time').
Used since the 14th century, originally referring to a person's span of life. The extended sense regarding objects became common later.
Memory tip
Think of the whole time you are alive.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: life