mortality rate

[ mawr-tal-i-tee reyt ]

noun

1. the relative frequency of deaths in a specific population during a specified time, often cited as the percentage of human deaths during a public health crisis, or of wildlife deaths due to environmental perils:

   Patients over the age of 80 had the highest mortality rate during the last flu season.

   The mortality rate of the bald eagle falls to about 25 percent after the first year of life.

mortality rate

noun

1. another term for death rate

Word History and Origins

Origin of mortality rate¹

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

Late-stage detection, due in part by anatomical challenges that hinder imaging and sampling of the long and complex gastrointestinal system composed of various organs and tissues, has contributed to the high mortality rate.

From Science Daily

The study shows significant regional differences in future mortality rates.

From Science Daily

Black women in California have suffered a maternal mortality rate more than three times that of white women in the state.

From Los Angeles Times

“Increased income and health insurance access are known to have health benefits, including reduced mortality rates.”

From Salon

The number of women's health clinics are decreasing, and maternal mortality rates increasing, as doctors and women alike face prosecution for potentially violating GOP-passed laws.

From Salon