safety net

noun

: something that provides security against misfortune or difficulty

Examples of safety net in a Sentence

The program provides a safety net for people who have lost their jobs.
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.
Economists at the World Bank and at universities inside and outside China have argued that China should expand its social safety net by increasing state pensions and beefing up the health system. Keith Bradsher, New York Times, 10 Jan. 2025 The safety net hospital system last year had to cut costs as expenses climbed and revenue remained flat, including a hiring freeze for more than a dozen positions. Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 10 Jan. 2025 Just as safety nets protect performers in a high-wire act, ethical frameworks ensure AI advancements don't endanger society. Ben Gebremeskel, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025 Medicaid: Rising costs and uninsured patient rates are straining safety net providers, many of whom face low Medicaid reimbursement rates. Alayna Alvarez, Axios, 7 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for safety net 

Word History

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of safety net was in 1877

Dictionary Entries Near safety net

Cite this Entry

“Safety net.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/safety%20net. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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