Give up the ghost

usgb
verb

To die or stop working.

After twenty years of use, my car finally gave up the ghost.
Visual representation of "give up the ghost" - To die or stop working

Often appears as...

  • to give up the ghost suddenly
  • the machine gave up the ghost

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "give up the ghost"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Literal End

Refers to the actual end of life or function, often used for inanimate objects or humor.

Illustration for Literal End
My old refrigerator finally gave up the ghost after years of repair.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Humorous Tone

It can add a light-hearted or humorous spin when talking about something ceasing to function.

Illustration for Humorous Tone
My phone gave up the ghost right in the middle of my call.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Non-living Things

More commonly used to describe machines or devices failing, not people dying.

Illustration for Non-living Things
After the storm, my computer gave up the ghost.
Visual representation of the word "Give up the ghost"

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