death ray

noun

1. a hypothetical ray that destroys life from a distance.

death ray

noun

1. an imaginary ray capable of killing

Word History and Origins

Origin of death ray¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

For the latest study, the researchers used their model to fatally damage oligodendrocyte DNA using what amounts to a cellular death ray -- a photon-based device called 2Phatal that Hill developed.

From Science Daily

More than a year after his death, Ray Liotta, was nominated for best supporting actor in a limited series or TV movie for “Black Bird” on Apple TV+.

From Washington Times

Dark Brandon aimed his death ray at the congressional Republicans in front of the whole country this week and in the process seems to have banished all thoughts of a primary challenge should he decide to seek a second term.

From Salon

“It’s not about his death,” Ray said of her song, which was a collaboration with composer Thomas Jefferson Anderson.

From Washington Times

Even after Brown’s death, Ray continued to serve his boss’s needs.

From Los Angeles Times