deadline

[ ded-lahyn ]

noun

1. the time by which something must be finished or submitted; the latest time for finishing something:

   a five o'clock deadline.

2. a line or limit that must not be passed.
3. (formerly) a boundary around a military prison beyond which a prisoner could not venture without risk of being shot by the guards.

deadline

/ ˈdɛdˌlaɪn /

noun

1. a time limit for any activity

Other Words From

• post·deadline adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of deadline¹

First recorded in 1855–60; dead + line ¹

Example Sentences

While missing that deadline was embarrassing, behind the scenes a more serious issue was playing out - Volocopter was urgently trying to raise fresh investment to keep the firm going.

From BBC

In his announcement Tuesday, Trump said he expected the “major cuts and new efficiencies in bloated agencies” to be put in place by July 4, 2026 — a deadline coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

From Los Angeles Times

In Orange County’s 45th Congressional District, where the contentious battle between GOP Rep. Michelle Steel and Democratic challenger Derek Tran may come down to a few thousand votes, volunteers are gearing up to work nearly 40 hours to cure ballots until the Dec. 1 deadline.

From Los Angeles Times

The US says Israel has not breached American laws on blocking aid supplies, after a 30-day deadline it gave Israel to boost humanitarian aid access in Gaza or risk having some military assistance cut off lapsed.

From BBC

That deadline expired on Tuesday.

From BBC

Related Words

• limit
• period
• time limit