Pronunciation: [at dˈɛθz dˈɔː] (IPA)
"At death's door" is a common phrase used to describe someone who is extremely ill and may not survive. The spelling of the word "death" is straightforward, with the /d/ sound followed by the /ɛ/ vowel and the /θ/ sound for the final consonant. However, the word "door" is more complex, with the /d/ sound followed by the silent /o/ and the diphthong /ɔr/ for the final sound. This phrase is often used to convey the seriousness of someone's condition and the need for immediate medical attention.
At death's door refers to a severe state of illness or exhaustion in which an individual's life is believed to be in imminent danger. The phrase is typically used to describe someone who is extremely close to dying or on the brink of death. It often implies that the afflicted person's condition is critical, indicating a very poor prognosis for recovery.
Originating from the metaphorical depiction of a person standing near the threshold of death, this expression emphasizes the gravity of the individual's health condition. It suggests a sense of vulnerability, weakness, and fragility. When someone is described as being at death's door, it conveys a sense of urgency and the need for immediate medical attention or intervention.
This phrase can be used in various contexts, including medical scenarios, where it signifies the severity of a patient's illness. However, it may also be used figuratively to describe extreme exhaustion or fatigue, implying that an individual is on the verge of physical or mental collapse.
In summary, "at death's door" refers to the critical state of an individual's health, indicating that they are in imminent danger of dying. It conveys a sense of extreme vulnerability and emphasizes the urgency for medical intervention or support.