death sentence

noun

1
: a sentence condemning a convicted defendant to death
2
: an affliction or a situation that is considered to be fatal
also : a prognosis of death

Examples of death sentence in a Sentence

She received a death sentence for the murders.
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.
DeBruce's death sentence was later reduced on appeal to life in prison. CBS News, 10 Mar. 2026 DeBruce’s death sentence was later reduced on appeal to life in prison. Kim Chandler, Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2026 Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has also stood by Burton’s conviction and death sentence and opposed several appeals by the inmate’s legal team. Elise Hammond, CNN Money, 10 Mar. 2026 Smith’s original death sentence was overturned, and he was resentenced in 2024 to 30 years in prison. Abby Dodge, Miami Herald, 7 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for death sentence

Word History

First Known Use

1655, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of death sentence was in 1655

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Cite this Entry

“Death sentence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/death%20sentence. Accessed 16 Mar. 2026.

Legal Definition

death sentence

see also:
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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