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Synonyms

death sentence

American  

noun

  1. a sentence condemning a convicted felon to execution by the state.


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

These breakthrough medications converted HIV from a death sentence into a manageable chronic illness, saving millions of lives.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

For many years, the illness was considered a death sentence, with a five-year survival rate of just 25 percent.

From Slate • Mar. 29, 2026

Valerie’s quandary seems much plainer in that her show’s success would be a death sentence for entertainment creatives.

From Salon • Mar. 26, 2026

“I received a death sentence from the regime,” he said, as calmly as others might say they got a parking ticket.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 7, 2026

“In short, the boy has had a death sentence pronounced upon him as surely as I have,” said Dumbledore.

From "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling

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