death warrant

noun

1. an official order authorizing the execution of the sentence of death.
2. anything that ends hope, expectation, etc.

death warrant

noun

1. the official authorization for carrying out a sentence of death
2. sign one's death warrant or sign one's own death warrant
   to cause one's own destruction

Word History and Origins

Origin of death warrant¹

First recorded in 1685–95

Example Sentences

The prelate however was not to be softened, and the king signed the death warrant with eyes steeped in tears.

From Project Gutenberg

The two comrades meet for the last time when the honest man announces his death-warrant to the knave.

From Project Gutenberg

Here his death warrant was signed, which is now preserved within the library of the House of Lords.

From Project Gutenberg

Those few last words whispered to Sapazani by the white arch-plotter had contained a death warrant.

From Project Gutenberg

But whether or not, in granting independence to the Philippines, we shall be signing the death-warrant of the highlander.

From Project Gutenberg