English Reference
noun

death

n.
US /ˈdɛθ/ UK /dˈɛθ/ death UK spelling deaths

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    the end of life for a living thing.

    the permanent cessation of all biological functions that sustain a living organism.

    Simple

    The family was very sad after the death of their old dog.

    In context

    The sudden death of the prime minister plunged the nation into a period of official mourning and political uncertainty.

    Pitfall
    He was death in a car accident. He died in a car accident.

    Use the verb 'die' for the action; 'death' is the noun for the event or state.

    passingdemisedecease
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the complete end or failure of something, like a plan or a dream.

    the destruction, termination, or cessation of a non-biological entity or concept.

    Simple

    The new law meant the death of many small family businesses.

    In context

    Critics argued that the rise of digital streaming services would signal the death of traditional cinema-going culture.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Literary

    a character in stories, often shown as a skeleton in a black cloak, who represents the end of life.

    the personification of the end of life, typically depicted as a cloaked skeleton carrying a scythe.

    Simple

    In the old story, Death comes to the door wearing a long black hood.

    In context

    The artist chose to depict Death not as a terrifying monster, but as a weary traveller seeking rest.

    grim reaper
  4. 04 C2 Proficiency FormalLiterary Religion

    a feeling of having no hope, energy, or meaning in life.

    a state of spiritual or emotional void; a lack of vitality or purpose.

    Simple

    He felt a kind of inner death after losing his lifelong passion.

    In context

    The poet explores the theme of spiritual death in a society obsessed with material wealth.

Usage death toll · death penalty · deaths of two

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Very common
Updated