# die a thousand deaths

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/die-a-thousand-deaths
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To suffer repeatedly (often mentally rather than physically); to suffer extreme embarrassment or anxiety.

## Examples

- I die a thousand deaths whenever I have to speak in public.
- Waiting for the results of my medical exam, I felt like I was dying a thousand deaths.
- As she stood before the silent audience, she died a thousand deaths, fearing her forgotten lines would ruin the entire performance.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.