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.
For others, the math is grimmer with student debt, an unforgiving housing market, fewer social safety nets and the enduring financial penalties of having children. — Grace Kelleher, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026 While the adjustment is intended to offset inflation, Social Security is intended to be a safety net, not a full replacement of your pre-retirement income. — David McMillin,dan Avery, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2026 With her husband Lewis Stewart (McKinley Freeman) at her side and Corey Cash (Morris Chestnut) providing support at her firm, her safety net is strong, but surviving a gunshot wound is only half of the battle. — Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 12 Oct. 2026 California’s taxes are among the nation’s highest, but the state also offers a broader social safety net than many others, which can cushion young workers between jobs. — Andrew McGowan, Fortune, 11 Oct. 2026 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

Rhymes for safety net

See All Rhymes for safety net

Browse Nearby Words

safety match
safety net
safety nut
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Safety net.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/safety%20net. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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