English Reference
Idiom idiom

dying breed


A group of people or things that is becoming less numerous over time.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

People who fix their own shoes are a dying breed.

CONTEXTUAL

Small family-owned shops are a dying breed in this city because of large supermarkets.

COMPLEX

As digital technology replaces traditional craftsmanship, those who still possess the patience for manual bookbinding are becoming a dying breed.


Related idioms4entries
  1. 01

    born and bred

    Showing characteristics of birth and upbringing, especially in relation to a particular location.

  2. 02

    breed in the bone

    To establish or ingrain firmly within someone's nature.

  3. 03

    different breed of cat

    Something entirely different; a whole other thing or matter.

  4. 04

    dying quail

    A pop fly which is hit weakly and falls in front of the outfielders.

Last updated August 10, 2026