DEATH BLOW Meaning and
Definition
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The term "death blow" refers to a metaphorical or literal strike that deals a decisive, severe, or fatal blow to an individual, an idea, an organization, or a cause. It is a forceful and definitive action that leads to the demise, collapse, or termination of its target.
In its literal sense, a death blow can signify a fatal strike targeting a living being, resulting in their instantaneous demise or imminent death. This term is often associated with combat or acts of violence, where a devastating strike incapacitates an adversary completely.
Figuratively, a death blow carries a similar impact but is not limited to physical violence. It can refer to actions, events, or circumstances that deal a severe blow to the vitality, existence, or success of an entity or a concept. For instance, in the context of business, a death blow might refer to a catastrophic financial loss that cripples a company, leading to its bankruptcy or forced closure.
The concept of a death blow encompasses the idea of finality, irreversibility, and irreparable damage. It suggests a critical point beyond which recovery is unlikely or impossible. It is often used in discussions about critical turning points, decisive actions, or significant events that have far-reaching consequences. Whether used literally or metaphorically, the term "death blow" implies a definitive and decisive strike of immense magnitude and consequence.
Common Misspellings for DEATH BLOW
- seath blow
- xeath blow
- ceath blow
- feath blow
- reath blow
- eeath blow
- dwath blow
- dsath blow
- ddath blow
- drath blow
- d4ath blow
- d3ath blow
- dezth blow
- desth blow
- dewth blow
- deqth blow
- dearh blow
- deafh blow
- deagh blow
- deayh blow
Etymology of DEATH BLOW
The word "death blow" is a compound noun formed from the combination of the two words "death" and "blow". Here is the etymology of each individual word:
1. Death: The word "death" can be traced back to the Old English word "dēað", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*daupaz". This Proto-Germanic word is thought to have been influenced by the Proto-Indo-European root "*dheu", meaning "to die". The word has stayed relatively consistent across languages, with similar terms found in other Germanic languages, such as German "Tod" and Dutch "dood".
2. Blow: The word "blow" comes from the Middle English word "blowe", which is derived from the Old English word "blāwan".
Idioms with the word DEATH BLOW
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a death blow
A devastating or fatal blow, either physical or metaphorical, that leads to the defeat or downfall of someone or something.
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deal a death blow
To deal a death blow means to deliver a final, fatal blow or action that ultimately leads to the downfall or destruction of something or someone. It is a decisive and fatal action that seals the fate of the target.
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death blow
A death blow refers to a final, decisive event or action that leads to failure or defeat, often in a threatening or critical situation. It can also refer to a powerful strike or attack that leads to death or fatal injury.
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