death knell

noun

1
: passing bell
2
: an action or event presaging death or destruction
the coming of the power press was the death knell of the hand press

Word History

First Known Use

1773, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of death knell was in 1773

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Dictionary Entries Near death knell

death instinct

death knell

deathless

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Cite this Entry

“Death knell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/death%20knell. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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