Dead as a doornail

Meaning

The idiom "dead as a doornail" is used to describe someone or something that is completely dead or has died, and there's no chance of revival. It can also be used to describe someone who is still alive but behaves as if they are already deceased. This expression is more commonly used in an informal setting and is often used to express surprise or shock when someone dies unexpectedly.

Usage

• I can't believe my best friend just passed away. He was only 25!
• My grandma died last week, and she was as sharp as a tack even until the very end.
• The president's speech was dead as a doornail. Nobody seemed to be interested in what he had to say.
• My dog just passed away, and it feels like a part of me has died with him.
• My ex-girlfriend is still alive, but she might as well be dead since I haven't seen her in years.

Roots and History

The origin of the idiom "dead as a doornail" can be traced back to medieval times when doornails were made of iron and used to spike the tips of shoes. It was believed that if someone died with their nails in, they would remain dead for a very long time. Over time, the phrase evolved to describe someone who is completely deceased or behaves as if they are already gone.

Synonyms in English

• Dead as a dodo
• As dead as a fish
• Deceased
• Departed
• Passed away

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish - Muerto como una hoz (literally, "died like a sickle")
• French - Mort comme une gale (literally, "died like a storm")
• German - Tödlich verstorben (literally, "fatally dead")
• Italian - Morì come una testa di pesce (literally, "died like a fish head")
• Russian - Помер равнодушно (literally, "died indifferently")

Similar Idioms

• do the trick

• dog eat dog

• next door