life raft

• Embarcación pequeña, a menudo inflable o rígida, utilizada para la evacuación de emergencia de un barco o avión, diseñada para mantener a las personas a flote en el agua.

A small, inflatable or rigid boat used for emergency evacuation from a ship or aircraft, designed to keep people afloat in water.

1. Emergency flotation deviceB1formal

   A small, inflatable raft carried on a ship or aircraft for use in emergencies to save people from drowning.

   balsa salvavidas

   • The crew deployed the life raft after the ship started sinking.
   • Passengers were instructed to board the life rafts immediately.
   • The life raft was equipped with emergency supplies and a radio beacon.

2. Metaphorical rescueB2informal

   Something that provides crucial help or relief in a difficult or desperate situation.

   salvavidas

   • The new job was a life raft for him after months of unemployment.
   • Her friendship served as a life raft during his depression.
   • The emergency loan was a life raft for the struggling business.