lifetime

[lahyf-tahym]

noun

1. the time that the life of someone or something continues; the term of a life.

   peace within our lifetime.

2. Physics.,  mean life.

adjective

1. for the duration of a person's life.

   He has a lifetime membership in the organization.

lifetime

/ ˈlaɪfˌtaɪm /

noun

1. 1. the length of time a person or animal is alive

   2. ( as modifier )

      a lifetime supply

2. the length of time that something functions, is useful, etc

3. physics the average time of existence of an unstable or reactive entity, such as a nucleus, excited state, elementary particle, etc; mean life

Word History and Origins

Origin of lifetime¹

First recorded in 1175–1225, lifetime is from the Middle English word liftime. See life, time

Example Sentences

Some loves are for a lifetime, others just a moment, but nothing’s stopping Aishe from what she wants in this life — or her next.

From Los Angeles Times

In the decade since his retirement in 2015, America has endured enough material for a lifetime’s worth of political cartooning.

From Salon

In this respect “I Know This Much Is True” also is a dramatic tapestry of destructive anger issues, festering under a lifetime of repressed resentment and confusion.

From Salon

Her “30 Rock” veteran husband had been encouraging her for years to reach out to the show, and she’s hoping her lifetime of ballroom experience isn’t too much for the competition.

From Los Angeles Times

But in 2013, President Obama signed a law again mandating lifetime protection.

From BBC

Related Words

• career 
• life 
• period