deadline

noun

dead·​line ˈded-ˌlīn How to pronounce deadline (audio)
1
: a line drawn within or around a prison that a prisoner passes at the risk of being shot
2
a
: a date or time before which something must be done
b
: the time after which copy is not accepted for a particular issue of a publication
see also:

Examples of deadline in a Sentence

She worked on her composition right up until the deadline. We had to hurry to meet the deadline. The project was completed a week past its deadline. The deadline for submitting college applications is April 19th. They're working under a deadline.
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.
As Stanton’s old team struggles toward the bottom of the National League East standings, it could be headed toward seller status at the upcoming trade deadline. Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 6 June 2026 As the waiting game continues in Great Giannis Chase 2026 (Part II, after what happened at February’s NBA trade deadline), a sticking point for some is what the Heat would have left after such a potential deal. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 6 June 2026 Democrats who support one of the other three candidates or have no preference ought to find a way to sign her petition before Tuesday’s deadline. Kevin Rennie, Hartford Courant, 6 June 2026 José Caballero started the first two games against Cleveland and has made four starts in right field since being acquired from Tampa Bay at the July 31 trade deadline. Larry Fleisher, Los Angeles Times, 5 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for deadline

Word History

First Known Use

1864, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of deadline was in 1864

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Cite this Entry

“Deadline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deadline. Accessed 8 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

deadline

noun
dead·​line ˈded-ˌlīn How to pronounce deadline (audio)
: a date or time before which something must be done

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