DEATH KNELL Meaning and
Definition
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Death knell is defined as a metaphorical term used to refer to an event or circumstance that signals the imminent or decisive end of something, often a negative outcome. The term originates from the funeral tradition of tolling a bell to mark a person's death, consequently signaling the somber departure of life. Symbolically, the tolling of the death knell represents the irreversible and terminal nature of death, signifying an end that cannot be undone or reversed.
In a figurative sense, the term 'death knell' is commonly used to describe a final blow or setback that brings about the downfall or demise of a person, idea, institution, or concept. It connotes a significant and irreversible setback, often leading to the ultimate failure or extinction of whatever it pertains to. The death knell represents the point of no return, after which recovery or revival becomes highly improbable.
The usage of the term extends beyond literal death and can be applied to various scenarios, such as a failing business that has suffered consecutive financial losses, or the ending of a long-standing tradition that will dismantle the cultural fabric of a community. It encapsulates the grim finality and irreversible nature of moments that spell doom and serve as a catalyst for an impending collapse or irrevocable loss.
Common Misspellings for DEATH KNELL
- seath knell
- xeath knell
- ceath knell
- feath knell
- reath knell
- eeath knell
- dwath knell
- dsath knell
- ddath knell
- drath knell
- d4ath knell
- d3ath knell
- dezth knell
- desth knell
- dewth knell
- deqth knell
- dearh knell
- deafh knell
- deagh knell
Etymology of DEATH KNELL
The word "death knell" is derived from two separate words:
1) "Death" - This word originates from the Old English word "dēað", which is related to the Old High German word "tōd" and Old Norse "dauði". All these words share a common Proto-Germanic root "*dauþuz". The word "death" refers to the cessation of life, the permanent end of vital functions in a living organism.
2) "Knell" - This word is derived from the Middle English word "knelen", which can be traced back to the Old English word "cnyllan" or "cnyll", meaning "to toll a bell". The word "knell" specifically refers to the sound of a bell, usually tolling slowly and mournfully, often to indicate a death or a funeral.
Idioms with the word DEATH KNELL
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toll the death knell
The idiom "toll the death knell" means to announce or signal the impending end or death of something. It is often used metaphorically to suggest that a certain situation, institution, or concept is coming to an irreversible end. The phrase originates from the practice of ringing a bell, known as a death knell, to notify the community of someone's passing.
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sound the death knell
The idiom "sound the death knell" refers to figuratively signaling or announcing the end, downfall, or irreversible decline of something significant, such as an institution, idea, or system. It implies that the final stage or irreversible change leading to an ultimate demise has been reached, often suggesting a bleak or somber tone.
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sound the death knell for
The idiom "sound the death knell for" refers to an action or event that signifies the end or demise of something, often indicating that it is fast approaching its conclusion or failing irreparably. It is derived from the practice of ringing a knell, or funeral bell, to signal a death or mournful occurrence.
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sound the death knell for sth
To "sound the death knell for something" means to be a sign or signal that brings an end or downfall to something, often implying a significant or irreversible change. The phrase is derived from the practice of tolling a bell (knell) to announce someone's death, symbolizing the end of life. So, "sound the death knell for something" suggests that an event or development is likely to lead to the demise or termination of that particular thing.
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toll or sound the death knell
To "toll or sound the death knell" is an idiom used to describe an event or action that signals the end or imminent failure of something. It originates from the practice of ringing a funeral bell, known as a death knell, to announce someone's passing. Therefore, the idiom suggests that the event or action in question is a major contributing factor to the downfall or demise of a particular situation or entity.
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sound/toll the death knell
The idiom "sound/toll the death knell" refers to a situation or event that signals the impending end or demise of something. It is often used to emphasize the gravity or finality of a particular situation, decision, or change that will likely lead to the downfall or extinction of a person, idea, organization, or any other entity. The term "death knell" originates from the practice of ringing church bells to announce a death, thereby marking the end of a life and mourning the loss.
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sound the death knell of something
The idiom "sound the death knell of something" means to signify or announce the end or impending failure of something, usually an institution, idea, or practice. It implies that the thing in question is no longer viable or sustainable, often indicating that it is doomed to disappear or become outdated.
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death knell
A sign or warning of the end or failure of something.
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