What does perish mean?
To perish means to die, but the word is often more emphatic and dramatic than the ordinary verb “die.” It commonly describes death resulting from violence, exposure, starvation, thirst, or danger, as in “the expedition perished in the snow.” Perish can also be used figuratively for things that are ruined, abandoned, or brought to an end, such as plans, hopes, traditions, or opportunities. Its connotations are generally solemn and final, so it is more common in literary, historical, journalistic, or formal writing than in everyday conversation. The verb has a long history in English and remains especially associated with vivid descriptions of death and destruction. Although it can describe the end of a person, it also applies to living organisms more broadly, including animals, plants, and crops.
To die, especially as a result of violence, exposure, starvation, or another dangerous condition.
"The stranded vessel's crew began to perish from exposure."
The construction “perish from” is common before a cause such as hunger, cold, thirst, or disease.
To be destroyed, ruined, or brought completely to an end.
"Without sustained support, the community's traditional crafts would eventually perish."
This figurative use is formal and often refers to plans, institutions, customs, living things, or opportunities.
Perish carries a stark finality: it evokes not merely death, but destruction so complete that nothing survives.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does perish come from?
The word comes through Old French perir, from Latin perire, meaning “to destroy, ruin, or lose.” Latin perire itself belongs to a family of words connected with loss and ruin, including the derivative imperire, the source of English “imperish.” The English verb has long been used both literally for death and figuratively for destruction or disappearance.
Related word forms
How perish is actually used
The word is formal and often carries a dramatic or sombre tone. It is especially common in accounts of death, hardship, destruction, and the disappearance of living things.