last-gasp

noun

1. modifier done in desperation at the last minute

   a last-gasp attempt to save the talks

Idioms and Phrases

The moment before death; also, the end. For example, “Fight till the last gasp” (Shakespeare, 1 Henry VI , 1:2), or He was determined to stay at the party until the last gasp . This idiom alludes to taking one's last breath, literally (first example) or figuratively (second example). [Late 1500s]

Example Sentences

Many hoped that night’s statement was the last gasp of Trumpian lies and hyperbole.

From Los Angeles Times

Kicking back to watch purplish and pink sunset colors arc over the sky while the last gasps of alpenglow fade from Mount Adams felt like a classic Northwest rural tableau.

From Seattle Times

This is a last gasp of men who, unable to justify their sexism in any way, must resort to brute force.

From Salon

Don’t construe this prognostication as a reason not to vote, but Romney knows his party is terminally ill, and may well breathe its last gasp come Election Day this November.

From Salon

And while our son was crying, having just watched his father take his last gasp for air, the media is sitting behind us, shuffling papers and talking about time.

From New York Times

Related Words

• do-or-die
• frantic