sudden death

noun

1
: unexpected death that is instantaneous or occurs within minutes from any cause other than violence
sudden death following coronary occlusion
2
: extra play to break a tie in a sports contest in which the first to score or gain the lead wins

Examples of sudden death in a Sentence

We won 27–24 in sudden death. a serious heart condition that can result in sudden death
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.
City voters haven’t re-elected a Waukegan mayor to two consecutive terms since Richard Hyde, who became mayor in 2002 following the sudden death of Mayor Dan Drew. Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2025 Leaders in Houston and nationwide are honoring U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner after his sudden death. Jay R. Jordan, Axios, 5 Mar. 2025 Kylie Jenner's glam team remembered her late hairstylist following his sudden death. Julia Moore, People.com, 3 Mar. 2025 During the sudden death round, participants could purchase cheats to ensure victory. Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 18 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sudden death

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sudden death was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sudden death.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sudden%20death. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

sudden death

noun
: extra play to break a tie in a sports contest in which the first to score or gain the lead wins

Medical Definition

sudden death

noun
: unexpected death that is instantaneous or occurs within minutes or hours from any cause other than violence
sudden death following coronary occlusion
especially : sudden cardiac death

More from Merriam-Webster on sudden death

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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