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at rest

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1

In a state of inactivity or repose, either physical or mental. For example, The doctor's clear explanation put her mind at rest. Chaucer used this idiom in Troilus and Cressida (c. 1374): “I mine heart set at rest upon this point.” Also see lay at rest.

2

Dead, as in His soul is now at rest with his forebears. This usage, employing rest to refer to death's repose, is less common today. [1300s]

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The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.

How to use at rest in a sentence

  • Mr. Roberts looked from her to his wife,—his face smiling, curious, yet with a sort of at-rest expression.

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