“(As) dead as a doornail” is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is often used to describe something that is completely lifeless or inanimate. In this article, we’ll explore the definition and meaning of this phrase, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
The phrase “(as) dead as a doornail” means that something is completely lifeless and has no chance of being revived. The phrase is often used to describe an object or situation that has come to a complete end.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “(as) dead as a doornail” is uncertain, but it is believed to date back to the 14th century. The phrase was first recorded in William Langland’s “Piers Plowman” in the late 14th century.
The phrase “doornail” refers to the large-headed nails that were used to secure doors in the Middle Ages. These nails were hammered into the door and bent over to prevent the door from being opened. Once the nail was bent, it was considered dead and could not be used again.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “(as) dead as a doornail” means “completely dead or lifeless.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines the phrase as “utterly lifeless or defunct.”
Associations
The phrase “(as) dead as a doornail” is often associated with death and finality. It is used to describe something that has reached the end of its life or usefulness and cannot be revived.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “(as) dead as a doornail” include “lifeless,” “inanimate,” “defunct,” “extinct,” and “lifeless.”
Antonyms
Antonyms for “(as) dead as a doornail” include “alive,” “animated,” “vibrant,” “active,” and “thriving.”
The same root words
The phrase “(as) dead as a doornail” does not have any root words, but it is believed to have originated from the Middle Ages when doornails were commonly used to secure doors.
Example Sentences
Here are some examples of how to use the phrase “(as) dead as a doornail” in a sentence:
- The battery in my phone is (as) dead as a doornail.
- The plant in my garden is (as) dead as a doornail.
- The car engine is (as) dead as a doornail and cannot be repaired.
- The light bulb is (as) dead as a doornail and needs to be replaced.
- The computer crashed and is (as) dead as a doornail.
In conclusion, the phrase “(as) dead as a doornail” is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is used to describe something that is completely lifeless and cannot be revived. The phrase originated in the Middle Ages and is believed to have come from the use of doornails to secure doors. It is often associated with death and finality and has no root words.