Death

The idiom "dead as a dodo" is inspired by the dodo, a flightless bird that lived on the island of Mauritius but became extinct in the late 17th century due to human activities and the introduction of non-native species. The expression is used to signify something that is not just deceased but entirely and irrevocably extinct or obsolete, much like the dodo bird itself.

The idiom "dead as a doornail" has uncertain origins but has been in use since at least the 14th century. This phrase was likely popularized by Charles Dickens in "A Christmas Carol." It is now used to imply that something is commonly used to describe something that is completely lifeless or inanimate, with no possibility of revival or recovery. It is often applied to objects, ideas, or situations rather than living creatures.

The idiom "dead as mutton" is believed to have originated in the 19th century, and it is a reference to the fact that mutton, which is the meat of an older sheep, becomes tough and less flavorful after it has been slaughtered. This expression is used to imply that it is unquestionably lifeless or inanimate, with no chance of revival or recovery, just like the meat from a sheep that has been killed.

The idiom "die in harness" has its origins in the work of horses or draft animals that would continue to pull a load until they died while still in their harnesses. Over time, the phrase evolved to describe someone who continues to work tirelessly or remains dedicated to their job or responsibilities until the very end, even in old age. It emphasizes the idea of a strong work ethic and commitment to one's duties.

The idiom "one foot in the grave" has uncertain origins, but it is commonly believed to have evolved from the imagery of a person who is so close to death that they have one foot already in the grave, indicating their imminent demise. The phrase has been used in this figurative sense for centuries to describe the elderly or those in poor health who are nearing the end of their lives.

The idiom "lay someone to rest" originates from the practice of conducting funeral or burial ceremonies. It is a phrase used to describe the act of giving a deceased person a proper and respectful burial, ensuring that their remains are placed in their final resting place. This expression reflects the tradition of providing a dignified and peaceful closure for the departed.

The idiom "meet one's Maker" has its roots in religious and spiritual beliefs, particularly in the context of Christianity. It suggests that when a person dies, they will encounter their Creator or God. The expression is used to emphasize the moment of death and the transition from earthly life to an afterlife or spiritual realm, making it a euphemistic way to refer to someone's passing.

The origin of the idiom "put one's affairs in order" is rooted in the practical aspect of preparing for one's death or a major life change.This expression is commonly used to indicate that someone is taking steps to address their responsibilities, often in anticipation of their death or a significant transition in life.

The origin of the idiom "get one's ticket punched" is not clearly documented, but it likely evolved from the idea of receiving a metaphorical ticket for one's journey into the afterlife, much like acquiring an actual ticket for travel. It is used to emphasize the idea of someone passing away, as if they have reached the end of their journey in life.

The idiom "at death's door" is a figurative expression originating from the idea that someone who is severely ill or injured is so close to death that they are metaphorically standing at the threshold or door of the afterlife. It is used to describe individuals who are in an extremely critical or life-threatening condition, often suggesting that their chances of recovery are minimal.

The idiom "live on borrowed time" has its origins in the notion of someone whose life has been extended or prolonged beyond what was expected, typically due to luck or some external factor. It implies that the person is living beyond their allotted or expected time, as if they've borrowed extra time beyond their natural lifespan. This expression is often used to describe individuals who have survived a life-threatening situation or a serious illness.

The idiom "drop like flies" is indeed related to death, particularly signifying a high rate of casualties or deaths. It originates from the association of flies with unsanitary conditions and the rapidity with which they die in such environments.

The idiom "pop one's clogs" is of British origin and is derived from the slang term "clogs," which refers to the wooden-soled shoes commonly worn by workers in the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in industrial regions of England. When someone would die, their clogs were no longer needed, so they were said to "pop" or "drop" their clogs, signifying their passing. This idiom is used humorously or informally to describe someone's death.

The idiom "pushing up daisies" is used to describe someone who is deceased or buried. The phrase likely originates from the idea that when a person is buried in a cemetery, they are beneath the ground, pushing the soil upward as if they were helping to grow the daisies or other flowers on the grave. This expression is often used humorously or casually.