<p><strong>Noun</strong></p><ul><li>A line, fired across a ship or boat, by means of which a hawser for a breeches buoy may be hauled aboard.</li><li>A line or rope for saving life, as one attached to a lifeboat.</li><li>Any of various lines running above the decks, spars, etc., of a ship or boat to give sailors something to grasp when there is danger of falling or being washed away.</li><li>A wire safety rope supported by stanchions along the edge of the deck of a yacht.</li><li>The line by which a diver is lowered and raised.</li><li>Any of several anchored lines used by swimmers for support.</li><li>A route or means of transportation or communication for receiving or delivering food, medicine, or assistance: This road is the town's lifeline and must be kept open despite the snow.</li><li>Assistance at a critical time.</li></ul><p><strong>End of Response</strong></p>