pass away

verb

passed away; passing away; passes away
Synonyms of pass awaynext

intransitive verb

1
: to go out of existence
2

Examples of pass away in a Sentence

the old woman passed away quietly
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adding to her woes, her Moroccan Jewish grandmother has just passed away, leaving her with only a family ring with mysterious powers. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 14 Apr. 2026 Five days later, Lucescu passed away. Colin Millar, New York Times, 12 Apr. 2026 The brothers passed away within weeks of each other in 2024. Michael James Rocha, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Apr. 2026 The award — given annually to the Hornets player who represents himself and the franchise with professionalism and cooperation in his interactions with the media — is named after the longtime Charlotte Observer beat writer who passed away in June 2021. Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 11 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pass away

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pass away was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Pass away.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pass%20away. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

pass away

verb

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