on one's deathbed
About to die
On one's deathbed describes someone who is dying or very near death, typically confined to bed in their final hours or days: On his deathbed, he confessed to the crime.
The phrase often introduces revelations, reconciliations, or final wishes—moments when the dying speak truths they've withheld: She forgave him on her deathbed.
Deathbed can also modify nouns: a deathbed confession, a deathbed conversion.
- family gatheringRelatives meeting socially
- terminal illnessIncurable, deadly medical condition
- last ritesSacrament for the dying
- frailtyWeakness of body
- regretSorrow over past actions
hospice care · existential questions · coming to terms · reconciliation · making peace · acceptance · closure · farewell · saying goodbye · dying wish · deathbed confession · spiritual transcendence · caregiver support · despair · bedridden · reflection · peace · palliative care
on one's deathbedhale and hearty
In excellent health
fit as a fiddle · healthy as a horse · alive and kicking · full of life · in fine fettle
on one's deathbedfull of life
Energetic and animated
alive and kicking · newborn · thriving · flourishing · vigorous