lifespan

noun

life·​span ˈlīf-ˌspan How to pronounce lifespan (audio)
variants or less commonly life span
plural lifespans also life-spans
1
: the average length of life of a kind of organism or of a material object especially in a particular environment or under specified circumstances
2
: the duration of existence of an individual

Synonyms

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Examples of lifespan in a Sentence

the average lifespan of house cats increase the human lifespan
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.
Past research has found that a strong sense of meaning in life comes with many health benefits, including a longer lifespan. — Ron Shachar, Scientific American, 7 Mar. 2025 One thing to know about Woot, however, is that deals there have a short lifespan, sometimes products only being available for a few hours. — Gabriela Vatu, PCMAG, 7 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of lifespan was in 1831

Rhymes for lifespan

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lifespan
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Cite this Entry

“Lifespan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lifespan. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

life span

noun
: the average length of life of a living thing or of the persistence of a material object under specified circumstances or in a particular environment

Medical Definition

life span

noun
ˈlīf-ˌspan How to pronounce life span (audio)
1
: the duration of existence of an individual
2
: the average length of life of a kind of organism or of a material object especially in a particular environment or under specified circumstances
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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