Top 50 Slang For Death – Meaning & Usage

Death, the inevitable part of life that has been contemplated and feared since the beginning of time. But have you ever wondered how people talk about death in a more casual and slangy way? Well, we’ve got you covered. In this listicle, we’ve gathered the top slang terms for death that will not only pique your curiosity but also give you a glimpse into the fascinating and sometimes dark world of colloquial expressions. Get ready to explore this intriguing topic and expand your linguistic repertoire!

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1. Kicked the bucket

This phrase is a euphemism for dying, often used in a lighthearted or humorous manner. It implies that the person has passed away and is no longer alive.

For example, “He finally kicked the bucket after a long battle with illness.”
In a comedic context, someone might say, “If I have to eat that, I’ll probably kick the bucket!”
A person discussing mortality might say, “We’re all going to kick the bucket eventually, so let’s make the most of our time.”

2. Bit the dust

This expression is used to refer to someone who has died or something that has come to an end or failed.

For instance, “After a long battle, he finally bit the dust.”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “The team fought hard but ultimately bit the dust.”
A person describing a failed business venture might say, “Our startup bit the dust after just a few months.”

3. Bought the farm

This phrase originated from military slang and is used to mean someone has died, typically in a sudden or unexpected way.

For example, “He bought the farm in a tragic car accident.”
In a war movie, a soldier might say, “If we don’t make it out of here, at least we won’t have to worry about buying the farm.”
A person discussing mortality might say, “None of us know when we’ll buy the farm, so let’s make the most of every day.”

4. Pushing up daisies

This expression refers to someone who has died and been buried, as daisies are often associated with graves or cemeteries.

For instance, “He’s been pushing up daisies for years now.”
In a conversation about a deceased loved one, someone might say, “I miss him every day, but at least he’s pushing up daisies in a peaceful place.”
A person joking about their own mortality might say, “I’ll be pushing up daisies before I finish all my work!”

5. Cash in one’s chips

This phrase is a gambling metaphor that means to die. It refers to the act of exchanging poker chips for money after finishing a game.

For example, “He cashed in his chips after a long battle with illness.”
In a conversation about mortality, someone might say, “We never know when we’ll cash in our chips, so let’s make the most of every moment.”
A person discussing the loss of a loved one might say, “She was too young to cash in her chips, but life is unpredictable.”

6. Meet one’s maker

This phrase refers to the belief that after death, a person will meet their creator or God. It is often used in a metaphorical sense to mean dying or passing away.

For example, someone might say, “When I meet my maker, I hope to have led a fulfilling life.”
In a discussion about mortality, one might say, “We all have to meet our maker eventually.”
A person reflecting on their own mortality might say, “I’m not afraid to meet my maker when my time comes.”

7. Six feet under

This phrase is a euphemism for being buried in a grave. It refers to the traditional burial depth of six feet, which is meant to ensure that the body is fully decomposed and does not pose a health risk.

For instance, someone might say, “When I die, I want to be laid to rest six feet under.”
In a conversation about burial practices, one might mention, “In many cultures, bodies are buried six feet under the ground.”
A person discussing their burial wishes might say, “I want to be cremated, not put six feet under.”

8. Croak

This slang term refers to the sound a frog makes when it dies. It is often used to describe a sudden or unexpected death.

For example, someone might say, “I can’t believe he just croaked like that.”
In a discussion about mortality, one might mention, “We never know when we’ll croak, so we should make the most of our time.”
A person jokingly commenting on their own mortality might say, “I’ll probably croak from eating too much junk food.”

9. Kick the can

This phrase originated from a children’s game called “Kick the Can,” where players would kick a can until it was knocked over. In slang, it means to die or pass away.

For instance, someone might say, “When I kick the can, I hope it’s peacefully in my sleep.”
In a conversation about mortality, one might say, “We all have to kick the can someday.”
A person jokingly discussing their own mortality might say, “I’ll kick the can, but not anytime soon.”

10. Shuffle off this mortal coil

This phrase comes from Shakespeare’s play Hamlet. It refers to the act of leaving behind one’s mortal body and passing into the afterlife. It is often used in a poetic or dramatic sense to mean dying.

For example, someone might say, “When I shuffle off this mortal coil, I hope to be remembered for my accomplishments.”
In a discussion about mortality, one might mention, “We all have to shuffle off this mortal coil eventually.”
A person reflecting on their own mortality might say, “I wonder what it will be like when I shuffle off this mortal coil.”

11. Give up the ghost

This phrase is often used to describe someone or something that has died or stopped working. It can also be used figuratively to mean giving up or surrendering.

For example, “After a long battle with cancer, he finally gave up the ghost.”
In a discussion about a broken down car, someone might say, “I think it’s time to give up the ghost and get a new one.”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “The team gave up the ghost in the final minutes of the game.”

12. Meet the Grim Reaper

This phrase refers to the personification of death in various cultures and is often used to mean dying or facing one’s own mortality.

For instance, “After a long illness, she finally met the Grim Reaper.”
In a discussion about mortality, someone might say, “We all have to meet the Grim Reaper eventually.”
In a dark humor context, a person might joke, “I hope I don’t meet the Grim Reaper anytime soon.”

13. Bite the big one

This phrase is a euphemism for dying and is often used in a casual or humorous context.

For example, “He bit the big one after a long battle with illness.”
In a discussion about mortality, someone might say, “We all have to bite the big one eventually.”
In a joking manner, a person might say, “If I have to go, I hope I go out biting the big one.”

14. Sleep with the fishes

This phrase originated from mafia slang and refers to someone being killed and their body disposed of in a body of water, typically with the intention of concealing the crime.

For instance, “He crossed the wrong people and ended up sleeping with the fishes.”
In a discussion about crime movies, someone might say, “That character really made a mistake and ended up sleeping with the fishes.”
In a metaphorical sense, a person might say, “If I mess up, I’ll be sleeping with the fishes.”

15. Take a dirt nap

This phrase is a euphemism for dying and being buried. It often implies a permanent and final rest.

For example, “After a long and fulfilling life, he took a dirt nap.”
In a discussion about funeral traditions, someone might say, “In some cultures, taking a dirt nap is seen as a natural part of the cycle of life.”
In a lighthearted context, a person might say, “I’m so tired, I could take a dirt nap right now.”

16. Pop one’s clogs

This slang phrase is commonly used in British English to refer to someone dying. It is often used in a lighthearted or humorous manner.

For example, “I hope I don’t pop my clogs before I finish this project.”
A person might say, “He popped his clogs after a long and fulfilling life.”
In a conversation about mortality, someone might ask, “Have you ever wondered how you’ll pop your clogs?”

17. Depart this life

This phrase is a formal and respectful way to refer to someone’s death. It is often used in obituaries or in more serious and somber contexts.

For instance, “She departed this life peacefully surrounded by her loved ones.”
A news article might report, “The actor departed this life at the age of 80.”
In a eulogy, someone might say, “We mourn the loss of our dear friend who has departed this life.”

18. Meet one’s end

This phrase implies that someone has reached the end of their life or a situation has reached a fatal conclusion. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts.

For example, “He met his end in a tragic accident.”
A person might say, “If you continue down this path, you’ll meet your end.”
In a discussion about the fate of a fictional character, someone might speculate, “I wonder how they’ll meet their end in the final season.”

19. Punch one’s ticket

This phrase is often used to refer to someone’s death, particularly in a casual or informal manner. It suggests that someone’s time has come to an end.

For instance, “He punched his ticket after a long battle with illness.”
A person might say, “We never know when we’ll punch our ticket, so let’s make the most of our time.”
In a conversation about mortality, someone might ask, “Have you ever thought about how you’ll punch your ticket?”

20. Go to the great beyond

This phrase is a euphemism for death and suggests that someone has moved on to an unknown or spiritual realm. It is often used in a poetic or philosophical context.

For example, “She went to the great beyond after a life well-lived.”
A person might say, “When I go to the great beyond, I hope to find peace.”
In a discussion about the afterlife, someone might ponder, “What awaits us in the great beyond?”

21. Pass away

This slang term is a euphemism for dying or the act of death itself. It is a more gentle and sensitive way to refer to someone’s passing.

For example, “My grandmother passed away peacefully in her sleep.”
When discussing a recent death, someone might say, “I’m sorry to hear that your friend passed away.”
A person might reflect on their own mortality and say, “When I pass away, I want to be remembered for making a difference.”

22. Meet one’s demise

This phrase refers to the end or death of a person or thing. It implies a final and often unfortunate outcome.

For instance, “The villain met his demise in a dramatic showdown.”
When discussing a tragic event, someone might say, “Many innocent lives met their demise in the accident.”
A person might reflect on their own mortality and say, “We all eventually meet our demise, it’s what we do before then that matters.”

23. Join the choir invisible

This phrase is a humorous and poetic way to refer to death. It suggests that when someone dies, they join a heavenly choir or become part of the afterlife.

For example, “After a long battle with illness, she joined the choir invisible.”
When discussing a famous person’s death, someone might say, “Another talented artist has passed on to join the choir invisible.”
A person might reflect on their own mortality and say, “When I pass away, I hope to join the choir invisible and be at peace.”

24. Go to the other side

This phrase refers to the belief that when someone dies, they transition from the physical world to the spiritual or afterlife.

For instance, “He went to the other side after a long illness.”
When discussing a loved one’s death, someone might say, “I believe they have gone to the other side and are watching over us.”
A person might reflect on their own mortality and say, “When I go to the other side, I hope to find peace and happiness.”

25. Cross over

This phrase suggests that when someone dies, they cross over from the living world to the afterlife. It implies a spiritual journey or transition.

For example, “She crossed over peacefully in her sleep.”
When discussing a tragic death, someone might say, “He crossed over too soon, but his memory lives on.”
A person might reflect on their own mortality and say, “When I cross over, I hope to be reunited with loved ones who have passed before me.”

26. Be no more

This phrase is a euphemism for dying or passing away. It implies that the person or thing has ceased to exist.

For example, in a eulogy, someone might say, “He has left this world and is no more.”
In a somber conversation about mortality, one might reflect, “In the end, we all will be no more.”
A poet might write, “When I die, I want to be no more, just a memory in the wind.”

27. Rest in peace

This phrase is often seen on tombstones and used as a way to express the hope that the deceased person’s soul will find eternal rest and peace.

For instance, a person might say, “Rest in peace, Grandma. You will be missed.”
In a tribute to a fallen hero, someone might write, “Thank you for your service. Rest in peace.”
A mourner might reflect, “Even though they are gone, may they rest in peace.”

28. Meet one’s doom

This phrase implies that someone is facing an inevitable and tragic end or fate.

For example, in a horror movie, a character might say, “They will meet their doom in the haunted house.”
In a discussion about the dangers of reckless behavior, someone might warn, “If you keep driving like that, you’ll meet your doom.”
A writer might describe a doomed character by saying, “He was destined to meet his doom from the moment he took that job.”

29. Cash in

This phrase is a euphemism for dying or passing away. It implies that the person has reached the end of their life.

For instance, someone might say, “He cashed in after a long battle with illness.”
In a conversation about mortality, a person might reflect, “We never know when we’ll cash in, so we must make the most of our time.”
A writer might describe the death of a character by saying, “In the final chapter, she cashed in peacefully.”

30. Bite the dust

This phrase is often used to describe someone dying in a sudden or unexpected manner, or to refer to a failure or defeat.

For example, in a war movie, a soldier might say, “Those enemies will bite the dust.”
In a discussion about the mortality rate of a disease, someone might comment, “Sadly, many will bite the dust due to this illness.”
A journalist might write, “After a long battle, the company finally bit the dust and closed its doors.”

31. Meet one’s Waterloo

This phrase is derived from the historical Battle of Waterloo, where Napoleon Bonaparte was defeated and met his downfall. It is used metaphorically to refer to someone experiencing a significant setback or failure.

For example, “After months of preparation, the team met their Waterloo when they lost the championship game.”
In a political context, one might say, “The candidate’s controversial remarks could be their Waterloo in the upcoming election.”
A business person might use the phrase to describe a failed venture, saying, “Our new product launch was our Waterloo – it didn’t meet expectations.”

32. Be six feet under

This slang phrase refers to someone who has died and been buried in a grave. It is a euphemistic way of talking about death.

For instance, “When I pass away, I want to be cremated, not six feet under.”
In a discussion about mortality, one might say, “We all end up six feet under eventually.”
A person expressing frustration or annoyance might exclaim, “I’ll be six feet under before this project is finished!”

33. Be pushing up daisies

Similar to “be six feet under,” this phrase is another euphemism for being dead and buried. It implies that the person’s body has decomposed and is now providing nourishment for the daisies that grow on their grave.

For example, “I don’t want to think about dying and pushing up daisies.”
In a lighthearted conversation about mortality, someone might joke, “Well, at least when I’m gone, I’ll be pushing up daisies.”
A person expressing disbelief or skepticism might say, “I’ll believe it when I’m pushing up daisies!”

34. Kick the bucket

This slang phrase is a euphemism for dying. Its origin is uncertain, but it may refer to someone kicking a bucket as a form of suicide or execution.

For instance, “When I kick the bucket, I want to be remembered for my accomplishments.”
In a conversation about mortality, someone might say, “We all have to kick the bucket eventually.”
A person joking about their own mortality might say, “I hope I kick the bucket at a ripe old age, surrounded by loved ones.”

35. Buy the farm

This phrase originated from the idea that when a soldier died in battle, their family would receive compensation in the form of money to buy a farm. It is now used more generally to refer to someone dying, often in a tragic or unexpected way.

For example, “He was a reckless driver and eventually bought the farm in a car crash.”
In a discussion about mortality, one might say, “No one wants to buy the farm before their time.”
A person expressing frustration or resignation might exclaim, “If I keep working these long hours, I’m going to buy the farm!”

36. Take the dirt nap

This slang phrase refers to the act of dying and being buried in the ground. It is often used humorously or lightheartedly.

For example, someone might say, “I don’t plan on taking the dirt nap anytime soon!”
In a discussion about mortality, a person might joke, “Well, when I finally take the dirt nap…”
Another might say, “It’s a morbid thought, but we all have to take the dirt nap eventually.”

37. Kick off

This slang phrase can refer to both the act of dying and the start of an event or activity. It is often used informally or colloquially.

For instance, someone might say, “I heard John kicked off last night. It’s such a shame.”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “The game is about to kick off, and the stadium is buzzing with excitement.”
Another might say, “Let’s kick off the party with some music and dancing!”

38. Take the last train

This slang phrase is a euphemism for dying. It implies that someone is taking the final journey or departing from life.

For example, someone might say, “When I take the last train, I hope it’s peaceful and painless.”
In a discussion about mortality, a person might reflect, “We don’t know when we’ll take the last train, so let’s make the most of our time.”
Another might say, “I want to accomplish my goals before I take the last train.”

39. Go six feet under

This slang phrase refers to the act of being buried in a grave, typically six feet deep. It is a euphemism for dying and being laid to rest.

For instance, someone might say, “When I go six feet under, I want to be surrounded by nature.”
In a discussion about funerals, a person might say, “It’s important to honor our loved ones when they go six feet under.”
Another might reflect, “We all end up going six feet under eventually, so let’s make the most of our time here.”

40. Pass on

This slang phrase is a euphemism for dying. It suggests the idea of passing from one life to another or passing away from this world.

For example, someone might say, “My grandmother passed on peacefully in her sleep.”
In a discussion about grief, a person might say, “It’s never easy when a loved one passes on.”
Another might reflect, “We should cherish the time we have with our loved ones before they pass on.”

41. Go to the grave

This slang phrase refers to the act of dying and being buried in a grave. It implies a permanent end to someone’s life.

For example, “After a long battle with illness, he finally went to the grave.”
In a discussion about mortality, someone might say, “We all have to go to the grave eventually.”
When discussing a deceased loved one, a person might say, “She’s gone to the grave, but her memory lives on.”

42. Go to the final resting place

This expression refers to the act of dying and being laid to rest in a final resting place, such as a cemetery or mausoleum. It emphasizes the idea of finding peace after death.

For instance, “After a life well-lived, he went to his final resting place.”
In a conversation about funeral arrangements, someone might say, “We need to decide where he will go for his final resting place.”
When discussing the loss of a loved one, a person might say, “She has passed away and found her final resting place.”

43. Be no longer with us

This slang phrase is a euphemism for death, indicating that someone is no longer alive.

For example, “He is no longer with us, but his memory lives on.”
In a conversation about a deceased celebrity, someone might say, “Unfortunately, she is no longer with us.”
When discussing the passing of a family member, a person might say, “We lost him last month, and he is no longer with us.”

44. Be pushing up the daisies

This slang phrase humorously refers to someone who has died and is buried in a grave. It implies a lighthearted or casual attitude towards death.

For instance, “When I’m dead and gone, I’ll be pushing up the daisies.”
In a conversation about mortality, someone might say, “We’ll all be pushing up the daisies someday.”
When discussing a deceased person, a person might say, “He’s been pushing up the daisies for years now.”

45. Be in a better place

This expression suggests that someone who has died is now in a better or more peaceful state. It is often used to provide comfort or solace to those grieving.

For example, “She may be gone, but she’s in a better place now.”
In a conversation about a recent loss, someone might say, “At least he’s in a better place, free from pain.”
When discussing the passing of a loved one, a person might say, “We take comfort in knowing that he’s passed on to a better place.”

46. Pop your clogs

This slang phrase means to die, often used in a lighthearted or humorous way. It originated from the idea of someone’s clogs popping off their feet when they die.

For example, “My grandmother finally popped her clogs last night.”
A person might say, “If I have to listen to one more boring lecture, I’m going to pop my clogs.”
In a comedic TV show, a character might announce, “I’m going to pop my clogs if I have to eat another one of your terrible meals!”

47. Meet your end

This phrase means to die or come to a fatal end. It suggests that a person’s life or situation has reached a definitive conclusion.

For instance, “The villain finally met his end in a dramatic showdown.”
A person might say, “If you keep eating junk food, you’re going to meet your end sooner than later.”
In a movie review, a critic might write, “The protagonist’s journey is gripping, and you never know when or how they will meet their end.”

48. Meet your demise

Similar to “meet your end,” this phrase also means to die or come to a fatal end. It implies that a person or thing has met their ultimate downfall or destruction.

For example, “The empire met its demise after years of corruption and mismanagement.”
A person might say, “If you don’t study for the exam, you’re going to meet your demise.”
In a book review, a reviewer might state, “The author skillfully builds suspense as the characters unknowingly approach their imminent demise.”

49. Go to the big sleep

This slang phrase refers to dying, often used in a euphemistic or poetic way. It suggests that death is a peaceful or eternal slumber.

For instance, “After a long and fulfilling life, he finally went to the big sleep.”
A person might say, “When my time comes, I hope I can go to the big sleep surrounded by loved ones.”
In a poem about mortality, a line might read, “We all eventually go to the big sleep, where dreams and reality intertwine.”

50. Cash in one’s checks

This phrase means to die, often used to convey the finality of death. It references the act of cashing in or collecting one’s paycheck, implying that death is the ultimate payment.

For example, “After a long illness, she finally cashed in her checks.”
A person might say, “If I have to work this job any longer, I might just cash in my checks.”
In a conversation about mortality, someone might remark, “We never know when we’ll cash in our checks, so we should make the most of every day.”