1.NounThe cessation of life and all associated processes; the end of an organism's existence as an entity independent from its environment and its return to an inert, nonliving state.
"My grandfather died a violent death, which saddened the whole family.; The serial killer was sentenced to death."
2.NounExecution (in the judicial sense).
"The serial killer was sentenced to death."
3.NounThe personification of death as a (usually male) hooded figure with a scythe; the Grim Reaper.
"When death walked in, a chill spread through the room."
4.NounThe collapse or end of something.
"England scored a goal at the death to even the score at one all.; Buyer (negotiating): You were at two-fifty on that one. Go on, then, what's the death on that? Seller: Two hundred pounds is the absolute death. Buyer: Sold. Thank you.; This bake sale is going to be the death of me!"
5.NounA cause of great stress, exhaustion, embarrassment, or another negative condition (for someone).