do-or-die

adjective

1
: doggedly determined to reach one's objective : indomitable
2
: presenting as the only alternatives complete success or complete ruin
a do-or-die situation

Examples of do-or-die in a Sentence

a do-or-die entrepreneur who never stopped believing that hard work would inevitably lead to success
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Commanders, in fact, are appearing in Saturday's matchup in large part because of their mettle on do-or-die downs. Rohan Nadkarni, NBC News, 16 Jan. 2025 College Football Playoff semifinals kick off The College Football Playoff returns tonight as the final four teams have do-or-die games Thursday and Friday evening. Rebecca Morin, USA TODAY, 9 Jan. 2025 The Atlantic had plenty, with the Panthers as defending champs, the Bruins collapsing early, the Leafs facing a do-or-die season and the Senators pushing for the playoffs while the Wings, Sabres and Canadiens struggle to find their footing. Sean McIndoe, The Athletic, 6 Jan. 2025 There are no style points awarded in a do-or-die game. Nick Kosmider, The Athletic, 2 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for do-or-die 

Word History

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of do-or-die was in 1873

Dictionary Entries Near do-or-die

Cite this Entry

“Do-or-die.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/do-or-die. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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