# lifeblood

/ˈɫaɪfˌbɫəd/ (US) · /lˈaɪfblʌd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lifeblood
Updated: 2026-10-12

## Definition

the most important thing that a group, business, or system needs to stay alive and successful. Without this thing, the whole system would stop working.

For teachers: the indispensable factor or influence that gives something its strength and vitality. Often used metaphorically to describe the essential resource or activity that sustains an organization or community.

## Examples

- Tourism is the lifeblood of this small island.
- Small businesses are the lifeblood of the local economy, providing jobs and services to the community.
- In the digital age, data has become the lifeblood of modern corporations, driving every strategic decision and marketing campaign through real-time analysis.

## Usage notes

- Typically used in the singular and often followed by the preposition 'of'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.