last rites

noun

, Roman Catholic Church.

1. anointing of the sick.

last rites

plural noun

1. Christianity religious rites prescribed for those close to death

Word History and Origins

Origin of last rites¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

On Tuesday, Logan pointed to a stained spot of concrete near two dumpsters where he gave Poindexter impromptu last rites.

From The Daily Beast

He was given last rites by a priest at least four times, and possibly a fifth—the latter while he was president, in June 1961.

From The Daily Beast

Lewis nearly died of a heart attack in July 1963 and was even given the last rites.

From The Daily Beast

The last rites, begun weeks ago, were hurriedly brought to an end during this last night.

From Project Gutenberg

Father Alexey performed the last rites of religion over him.

From Project Gutenberg

Why do you refuse to perform the last rites over the body of my daughter?

From Project Gutenberg

And therewithal the Teucrians on the beach wept Misenus, and bore the last rites to the thankless ashes.

From Project Gutenberg

One of them did; and kneeling near his coffin the poor wretch received the last rites of the church of Rome.

From Project Gutenberg