dying breed: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘dying breed’ mean?
The idiom "dying breed" refers to a group or type of people or things that are becoming rare or disappearing completely. It implies that there are few remaining members or examples of that particular group or type.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "thin the herd" means to reduce the number of people or animals in a group, typically by eliminating the weakest or least able. This is often used metaphorically to describe a situation where only the strongest or most capable individuals survive or succeed.
The idiom "dying quail" refers to something that is weak, feeble, or lacking vitality, often used to describe a failed or weak attempt at something.
The idiom "dry up and blow away" means to disappear or become forgotten, often due to lack of attention or relevance. It conveys the idea of something becoming insignificant or irrelevant over time.
The idiom "draw one's last breath" means to die or to take one's final breath before passing away.
The idiom "do-or-die" means that a situation requires full commitment and determination. It suggests that failure is not an option and that one must give their utmost effort to succeed.
The idiom "die the way one lived" means that a person's death reflects their lifestyle, actions, or choices during their lifetime.
The idiom "die out" means to cease to exist or become extinct. It is often used to describe the decline or disappearance of a species, a language, or a cultural tradition.
The idiom "die on the vine" means to fail or end without achieving success or completion. It is often used to describe a project, plan, or idea that does not progress or develops further.
The idiom "die down" means to gradually become less intense, loud, or active.
The idiom "to die" means to cease living, to expire, or to perish. It is often used figuratively to express a strong feeling or desire, such as "to die laughing" or "to die for." This idiom is commonly used in English literature and everyday conversations.
Endangered survivors
The idiom "dying breed" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It refers to a group of individuals or things that are becoming less common or at risk of disappearing completely. This idiom can be traced back to the early 19th century, when the word "dying" was used to describe something becoming weaker or fainter, and "breed" referred to producing or bringing forth.
In contemporary usage, "dying breed" is often applied to animals, especially those that are endangered or threatened with extinction. This emphasizes the need for conservation efforts to protect these species and prevent their complete eradication from the earth. Additionally, the idiom can describe professions or trades that are gradually becoming obsolete due to technology or changing societal needs.
Furthermore, "dying breed" can also be applied to individuals who possess characteristics, values, or skills that are increasingly uncommon in modern society. This could refer to a group of people who adhere to traditional customs, uphold moral principles, or embody a particular way of life that is at odds with prevailing norms and trends.
It is worth noting that "dying breed" is often used with a sense of nostalgia or regret, as it implies the loss of something valuable or unique. This idiom serves as a reminder that diversity and variety are essential for maintaining a vibrant and balanced society. The disappearance of certain groups or things can result in cultural homogeneity and a loss of richness.
The idiom "die-out-idiom-meaning-and-origin/">die out" is closely related to "dying breed." It refers to the complete extinction or disappearance of a species, profession, or way of life. When a group or population "dies out," it means that it no longer exists or is on the verge of being completely gone. This emphasizes the importance of preserving and protecting these groups from disappearing forever.
Another related idiom is "thin the herd." This phrase is often used to describe a process of natural selection or elimination, where weaker or less fit individuals are removed from a group. In the context of "dying breed," "thin the herd" could be applied to situations where certain individuals or characteristics are seen as unnecessary or less valuable in a changing environment.
The idiom "die" itself is a general term that means to cease living or existing. It can be used figuratively to describe the end or cessation of something, such as a profession, tradition, or way of life. When applied to "dying breed," "die" represents the idea that these groups or things are at risk of disappearing entirely, emphasizing the urgency in preserving them.
"die down" is another related idiom that means to become less intense, active, or prominent. In the context of "dying breed," "die down" could be used to describe a situation where the presence or influence of a certain group or characteristic is diminishing. This could be due to external factors, such as changing societal trends or advancements in technology.
The idiom "dead and buried" is closely related to "dying breed" and signifies that something is no longer relevant, existing, or of concern. It emphasizes the finality and irreversibility of the disappearance or extinction of a group or thing. When applied to "dying breed," "dead and buried" emphasizes the complete loss or absence of these individuals or things in society.
The idiom "dying breed" encapsulates the idea of extinction or gradual disappearance. Whether applied to species, professions, or individuals, this idiom conveys a sense of urgency and importance in preserving the unique and rare. It serves as a reminder to appreciate and protect the diversity and richness that exists within our world, lest we lose it forever.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "dying breed" can be used in a sentence:
- Horse-drawn carriages have become a dying breed in urban areas.
- In this era of digital downloads, physical bookstores are considered a dying breed.
- Traditional farming practices are slowly disappearing, making small-scale farmers a dying breed.
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