sudden death
noun
1
: unexpected death that is instantaneous or occurs within minutes from any cause other than violence
sudden death following coronary occlusion
2
: extra play to break a tie in a sports contest in which the first to score or gain the lead wins
Examples of sudden death in a Sentence
We won 27–24 in sudden death.
a serious heart condition that can result in sudden death
Recent Examples on the Web
The Context Bridges' sudden death at age 41 has resonated with fans, particularly given his focus on family and the relatability of his content.
—
Megan Cartwright, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025
Five months before D’Uwan’s sudden death, the quiet 14-year-old had graduated from middle school, and was excited to have recently started attending high school, according to WCNC.
—Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 19 Oct. 2025
According to 12th-century English historian William of Newburgh, these creatures emerged from the lingering life force of people who had committed evil deeds during their lives or who experienced a sudden death.
—Tom Duszynski, The Conversation, 16 Oct. 2025
That year of their final album, the band abruptly ended following the sudden death of drummer Mathew Fletcher.
—Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 15 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for sudden death
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Megan Cartwright, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025
Five months before D’Uwan’s sudden death, the quiet 14-year-old had graduated from middle school, and was excited to have recently started attending high school, according to WCNC.
—Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 19 Oct. 2025
According to 12th-century English historian William of Newburgh, these creatures emerged from the lingering life force of people who had committed evil deeds during their lives or who experienced a sudden death.
—Tom Duszynski, The Conversation, 16 Oct. 2025
That year of their final album, the band abruptly ended following the sudden death of drummer Mathew Fletcher.
—Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 15 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for sudden death
Cite this Entry
“Sudden death.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sudden%20death. Accessed 28 Oct. 2025.
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