Moribund

Adjective

Definition: In a dying state; near death.

Synonyms: Dying, Expiring, Declining

Antonyms: Thriving, Lively, Robust

Examples:

The patient was moribund and not expected to survive the night.
The company's sales have been moribund for the past few years.

Mnemonics:

Think of "moribund" as "morbid" and associate it with a dying state.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "moribund" comes from the Latin word "moribundus", which is formed from "mori" meaning "to die".

Historical Usage:

The term has been used in English since the late 18th century to describe something in a dying or declining state.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Moribund economy"

Explanation:

Refers to an economy that is stagnating or on the decline, with little growth or activity.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "moribund" with "morbidity".

Explanation:

"Moribund" describes a state of near death or decline, while "morbidity" refers to the prevalence or incidence of disease or illness. They have distinct meanings and should not be used interchangeably.