death warrant

noun

1
: a warrant for the execution of a death sentence
2
: death blow

Examples of death warrant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
DeSantis is the third Florida governor to sign a death warrant for Thompson. — Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 14 Oct. 2026 The Republican governor did not provide a reason for withdrawing Thompson’s death warrant but had temporarily stayed his execution last month pending a psychiatric evaluation. — ABC News, 13 Oct. 2026 The stay was eventually lifted, but DeSantis didn’t sign a new death warrant. — David Fischer, Los Angeles Times, 13 Oct. 2026 Records show that this is the first time DeSantis has withdrawn a death warrant, which does not technically change Thompson's sentence. — CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for death warrant

Word History

First Known Use

1692, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of death warrant was in 1692

Rhymes for death warrant

See All Rhymes for death warrant

Browse Nearby Words

deathward
death warrant
deathwatch
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Cite this Entry

“Death warrant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/death%20warrant. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Legal Definition

death warrant

see also:
warrant
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