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 But Newsom has proposed slashing billions across programs, including social safety net and housing, in an effort to balance California’s budget for the next two years. Nicole Nixon, Sacramento Bee, 14 May 2024 The fact is that no social safety net will ever replace a ... Benjamin Watson, National Review, 12 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for safety net 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'safety net.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 19 May. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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