Buy the farm

usgb
verb

To die or get killed.

During the war, many soldiers bought the farm on the front lines.
Visual representation of "buy the farm" - To die or get killed

Often appears as...

  • he bought the farm
  • almost bought the farm

Usage tips

Slang, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "buy the farm"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Euphemistic Expression

This phrase is a less direct way to say someone has died, often used to soften the impact.

Illustration for Euphemistic Expression
After the crash, we heard the pilot bought the farm.
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Conversational Tone

'Buy the farm' is typically used in casual speech rather than formal situations.

Illustration for Conversational Tone
When he didn't come back from the expedition, we feared he might've bought the farm.
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Cultural Reference

The term originated in military contexts, referring to dying in battle and paying the 'farm' with one's life.

Illustration for Cultural Reference
My grandfather was fortunate to not buy the farm during the war.
Visual representation of the word "Buy the farm"

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