from (the) cradle to (the) grave
phrase
: from the beginning until the end of life
He led a life of hardship from the cradle to the grave.
The book describes her life from cradle to grave.
Cite this Entry
“From (the) cradle to (the) grave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/from%20%28the%29%20cradle%20to%20%28the%29%20grave. Accessed 6 Mar. 2026.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
