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Definition of deathblow

deathblow

/ˈdɛθˌbloʊ/
death · blow
Plural:deathblows
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deathblow Lexical Profile

deathblow Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A destructive event, action, or setback that brings an end to a plan, organization, or endeavor.

Example

"The sudden withdrawal of major sponsors dealt a deathblow to the community theater project."

2

A physical strike or wound that causes death.

Example

"In the ancient epic, the hero delivered the final deathblow to the mythical beast."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

death
death adder
deathbed
deathblow
deathless
deathlike
deathly

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 18th century as a compound of the Old English roots 'death' (from 'dēath') and 'blow' (a hard stroke). It originally described a literal fatal strike in combat before becoming widely used as a metaphor for a decisive setback.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Deathblow. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/deathblow
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