deathbed
UK: ˈdɛθbɛd | US: ˈdɛθˌbɛd
n. the bed on which a person dies or is about to die
n. (figuratively) the final stage or moments of something
The word "deathbed" is a straightforward compound formed by combining "death" (Old English dēaþ, from Proto-Germanic dauþuz) and "bed" (Old English bedd, from Proto-Germanic badją). It literally refers to the bed where someone dies, with the concept extending metaphorically to signify the terminal phase of any process. The compounding reflects the Germanic tradition of creating concrete, descriptive terms by merging two existing words.
The family gathered around her deathbed to say their goodbyes.
He wrote his final poem on his deathbed.
The company’s bankruptcy marked the deathbed of its once-thriving industry.
Ancient kings often issued deathbed decrees to secure their legacy.
The scientist made a groundbreaking discovery on his deathbed.