drop-dead

[drop-ded]

adjective

1. inspiring awe, astonishment, or envy.

   a drop-dead guest list; a drop-dead sable coat.

2. being the most extreme limit or possibility.

   What's the drop-dead date for handing in term papers? That is our drop-dead offer.

drop-dead

adverb

1. informal,  outstandingly or exceptionally

   drop-dead gorgeous

Word History and Origins

Origin of drop dead¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Idioms and Phrases

An expression of anger, rejection, or indignation toward someone. For example, I should do all that work for you? Drop dead! This rude imperative is usually hyperbolic, that is, the speaker is not literally asking someone to die on the spot. [c. 1930] Curiously, the adjective (and adverb) drop-dead is not at all insulting. Rather, it means “dazzling” or “awe-inspiring,” as in She wore a drop-dead outfit that all the other women admired. This usage originated in slangy journalism in the 1960s.

Example Sentences

He was as militant a union man as I ever met, and I have met a few in my day, and moreover, he was drop-dead brilliant.

From Salon

She claimed he said she was “so drop-dead gorgeous” and then invited her to his home.

From Salon

Pushed out of mind by a handful of deadline delays, Californians now face another drop-dead date to apply for the Real ID if they plan to travel domestically next year.

From Los Angeles Times

For putting together a ticket, Mr. Davis said, “April 15 is kind of their drop-dead date.”

From New York Times

The deal has a “drop-dead” date of July, until which JetBlue must use its best-faith efforts to close the transaction, including appealing the judge’s ruling.

From New York Times