yield up the ghost: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘yield up the ghost’ mean?
The idiom "yield up the ghost" means to die or cease to function, often used to describe the moment of death or the failure of a machine or device.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "yield the ghost" means to die or cease to function. It is often used to describe the moment when someone passes away or when a machine or device finally stops working.
The idiom "turn to dust" means to completely disintegrate or crumble into tiny particles, often implying destruction or annihilation. It is used metaphorically to describe something that has been completely destroyed or ruined beyond repair.
The idiom "toes up" means to be dead or to be in a state of complete failure or cessation. It is often used informally to indicate that someone or something has come to an end or has stopped working or functioning.
The idiom "to death" means to an excessive or exaggerated extent, often to the point of becoming tiresome or irritating. It is used to convey the idea of repetition or overdoing something to the point of annoyance.
The idiom "throw up one's hands" means to give up or surrender in frustration, indicating a sense of helplessness or resignation towards a difficult situation or problem.
The idiom "throw in the towel" means to give up or surrender in a difficult or challenging situation.
The idiom "shuffle off this mortal coil" means to die or pass away. It suggests that a person is shedding the burden of their mortal existence, often in a peaceful or resigned manner.
The idiom "say goodbye" means to part or separate from someone or something, often permanently. It implies a finality or ending to a relationship, situation, or opportunity.
The idiom "push up daisies" means to be dead and buried in a cemetery.
Eerie Revelations
The idiom "yield up the ghost" is rooted in the English language and has been in use since the early 1600s. It involves the phrase "yield up," which means to give up or surrender, and the term "the ghost," which refers to a person's spirit or soul. When combined, the idiom signifies the act of dying or passing away, and it is commonly used to describe someone's death.
One theory suggests that the origin of this idiom may be related to biblical references. In various translations of the Christian Bible, such as the King James Version, the New International Version, and the English Standard Version, the phrase "yield up the ghost" can be found. It is often used to describe Jesus' death on the cross, where he is said to have "yielded up his spirit" or "gave up his spirit" before dying.
Another possible origin of the idiom can be traced back to ancient Greek mythology. In Greek mythology, it was believed that the soul or "shade" would leave the body upon death. This concept may have influenced the development of the idiom, as it depicts the release or surrender of the soul.
Throughout history, the idiom "yield up the ghost" has become widely recognized and is used in various literary works and everyday conversations. It serves as a euphemism for death, allowing individuals to discuss the subject in a more indirect or less confrontational manner. The phrase is often used to convey the idea of someone dying peacefully or gracefully.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding its exact origins, the meaning and usage of "yield up the ghost" have evolved over time. Today, it continues to be a familiar expression, symbolizing the moment of death. The idiom is employed in both formal and informal contexts, contributing to the diverse range of idiomatic expressions in the English language.
Related Idiom: "yield the ghost"
The idiom "yield the ghost" is closely related to "yield up the ghost." It shares a similar meaning, indicating the act of dying or passing away. "Yield the ghost" is often used as an alternative expression for someone's death, emphasizing the surrender or release of the soul.
Use of this related idiom provides additional options when discussing the topic of death. By incorporating "yield the ghost" into conversations or writing, individuals can add variety to their language and express the concept of dying in different ways.
Related Idiom: "give up the ghost"
The idiom "give up the ghost" is another term associated with the act of dying. It has a similar meaning to "yield up the ghost" and "yield the ghost," emphasizing the surrender or release of the soul. This expression is often used figuratively to describe the moment of death.
Incorporating "give up the ghost" into discussions or writing about death allows for a broader range of language and adds depth to the expression of this universal human experience. It provides an alternative way to convey the idea of someone passing away, enriching the conversation or text.
The idioms "yield the ghost" and "give up the ghost" are closely related to "yield up the ghost." They share a common meaning, representing the act of dying and emphasizing the surrender or release of the soul. By incorporating these related idioms into language and discussions about death, individuals can enhance their expression and add variety to their communication.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *yield up the ghost* can be used in a sentence:
- After years of faithful service, the old car finally yielded up the ghost and stopped working.
- As the patient's condition worsened, it became clear that he would soon yield up the ghost.
- Despite all efforts to revive it, the damaged computer eventually yielded up the ghost and could not be repaired.
More "Death" idioms
