The term "lifesaver" can have different meanings depending on the context. Here are some of the most common definitions:
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A person trained to save lives of drowning persons: This is the original meaning of the term, and it refers to someone who is trained to rescue people who are in danger of drowning. In some countries, such as Australia, the term "lifesaver" is still used to refer to a lifeguard.
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Something that saves a persons life: This can refer to anything that helps to save a persons life, such as a surgical procedure, a medication, or a tool that is used to fix something.
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Something or someone which provides help that is badly needed: This can refer to anything that provides help in a difficult situation, such as a tool that makes a task easier, or a person who offers assistance when it is needed.
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A brand of candy: Life Savers is an American brand of ring-shaped hard and soft candy that was first created in 1912 by Clarence Crane, a candy maker from Ohio.
In summary, "lifesaver" can refer to a person, a thing, or a brand of candy, depending on the context.