give up the ghost

phrase

Synonyms of give up the ghostnext
: to cease to live or function : die

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of give up the ghost was in the 15th century

Cite this Entry

“Give up the ghost.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/give%20up%20the%20ghost. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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