departed

American  

[dih-pahr-tid] / dɪˈpɑr tɪd /

adjective

1. deceased; dead.

2. gone; past.

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noun

1. the departed,

   1. the dead person referred to.

   2. dead persons collectively.

departed British  

/ dɪˈpɑːtɪd /

adjective

1. euphemistic

   1. dead; deceased

   2. ( as sing or collective noun; preceded by the )

      the departed

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Other Word Forms

• undeparted
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of departed

First recorded in 1550–60; depart + -ed ²

Explanation

Something that's departed is gone, or happened in the distant past. An archaeologist might unearth artifacts from a departed era. Anything that's past or long gone is departed, including a person who has died. When your friend talks about her dear, departed Uncle Bob, you know that Uncle Bob is no longer living. The word has been a euphemism for "dead" since at least the 16th century — the traditional wedding service once read "till death us depart," rather than today's "till death do us part."

Example Sentences

Some of the departed leaders were frustrated both with the company’s transparency around its take rate and Green’s leadership decisions, said people familiar with the matter.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 27, 2026

As he departed the courthouse, Franco was asked by a reporter how he felt.

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026

Under Lund, BP chief executive Bob Dudley departed in early 2020, replaced by Bernard Looney, who was sacked over his failure to disclose past relationships with colleagues.

From Barron's • May 26, 2026

There were fears Liverpool's success would not continue once Klopp departed, but Slot led them to the title in his first season - matching Manchester United's record of 20 English top-flight titles.

From BBC • May 23, 2026

She began, “Was there any … departed friends or relatives with whom Miss Allen would like to converse?”

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock

Related Words

• deceased