do-or-die

adjective

Synonyms of do-or-dienext
1
: doggedly determined to reach one's objective : indomitable
2
: presenting as the only alternatives complete success or complete ruin
a do-or-die situation

Examples of do-or-die in a Sentence

a do-or-die entrepreneur who never stopped believing that hard work would inevitably lead to success
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.
The Seahawks wrestled the division from the Rams in Week 16 when quarterback Sam Darnold completed a do-or-die 2-pointer to tight end Eric Saubert for a 38-37 overtime victory. Jeff Howe, New York Times, 16 June 2026 After that loss, Counsell declined to go with Imanaga in the do-or-die Game 5, which the Cubs lost to end their season. Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 30 May 2026 Or will Victor Wembanyama rise to the occasion and force a do-or-die Game 7? Andrew Greif, NBC news, 28 May 2026 Mikko Rantanen sent his friends and former teammates home in a blur — his third-period hat trick and assist to erase a 2-0 deficit happened in the final 13 minutes of a do-or-die Game 7. Corey Masisak, Denver Post, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for do-or-die

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of do-or-die was in 1851

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Do-or-die.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/do-or-die. Accessed 22 Jun. 2026.

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