the length of time that sb lives or that sth lasts:
His diary was not published during his lifetime. * a lifetime of experience * in the lifetime of the present government * He had spent a lifetime trying to please his father.
IDIOMS
the chance, etc. of a lifetime a wonderful opportunity, etc. that you are not likely to get again:
the experience / holiday / vacation / trip of a lifetime * When she was offered the job she knew it was the chance of a lifetime.
