expiry

noun

ex·​pi·​ry ik-ˈspī(-ə)r-ē  ˈek-spə-rē 

plural expiries

: expiration: such as

a

: exhalation of breath

b

: death

c

: termination

especially : the termination of a time or period fixed by law, contract, or agreement

Synonyms

• demise
• expiration
• termination
• death
• dissolution

Examples of expiry in a Sentence

the expiry of the waiting period

the expiry of a great empire is always a cataclysmic event

Recent Examples on the Web

Meanwhile, analysts warn that Washington’s levies, as well as the expiry of a sub-Saharan Africa-US free trade deal, will push African nations even closer to Beijing’s sphere of influence. —Jeronimo Gonzalez, semafor.com, 3 Oct. 2025

Antonio, the club’s record Premier League goalscorer, Cresswell and Coufal all departed in May upon the expiry of their contracts. —Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 28 Sep. 2025

Experts tell Newsweek that that their expiry could lead to major financial strain for households already grappling with tight budgets, with some potentially dropping coverage altogether. —Hugh Cameron, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 Sep. 2025

It was reported that Disney’s desire to remake its classic cartoons was driven by the expiry of the copyright to the characters in them. —Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 4 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1752, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing expiry

• expiry date

Rhymes for expiry

• inquiry
• kyrie
• wiry

Medical Definition

expiry

noun

ex·​pi·​ry ik-ˈspī(ə)r-ē  ˈek-spə-rē 

plural expiries

1

: exhalation of breath

2

: death