DEATH RATTLE Meaning and
Definition
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Death rattle refers to the loud, raspy sound often heard during the final stages of a person's life, particularly when they are near death or in the process of dying. This distinct sound is characterized by a harsh, gurgling noise in the throat and respiratory system, and is generally caused by the accumulation of fluids in the airways. More specifically, death rattle occurs when a dying person's ability to swallow or cough effectively diminishes, leading to a buildup of saliva, mucus, and other secretions in the throat and lungs.
The term "death rattle" is derived from the rattling or gurgling sound produced by the exhalation of air through the obstructed airway. It can be distressing to witness for family members and caregivers, as the sound often indicates that the person is nearing the end of their life. However, it is important to note that death rattle itself is not known to cause discomfort or pain to the person experiencing it.
Death rattle is commonly observed in people who are terminally ill or in the final stages of a serious medical condition, such as cancer or respiratory disease. Its presence may serve as an indicator to healthcare professionals that a patient's death is imminent. Despite its association with the dying process, death rattle does not necessarily occur in all cases of death, and its absence does not preclude the impending passing of an individual.
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A gurgling or rattling in the throat of a moribund person, caused by an accumulation of mucus in the respiratory passages.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A rattle in the throat of a dying person.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DEATH RATTLE
- seath rattle
- xeath rattle
- ceath rattle
- feath rattle
- reath rattle
- eeath rattle
- dwath rattle
- dsath rattle
- ddath rattle
- drath rattle
- d4ath rattle
- d3ath rattle
- dezth rattle
- desth rattle
- dewth rattle
- deqth rattle
- dearh rattle
- deafh rattle
- deagh rattle
- deayh rattle
- deathrattle
Etymology of DEATH RATTLE
The word "death rattle" combines two separate words: "death" and "rattle".
The word "death" originates from the Old English word "dēaþ", which meant the end of life or the cessation of all vital functions. This word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*dauþuz".
The word "rattle" comes from the Middle English word "ratelen", which means to make a rapid succession of short, sharp sounds. It is believed to be derived from the Old Norse word "ratla", meaning a "rattle" or "clattering noise".
When these two words combine, "death rattle" refers to the rattling or gurgling sound produced by a dying person due to the accumulation of secretions in their throat or lungs. It is called a "death rattle" because it is often an indication that death is imminent.
Similar spelling words for DEATH RATTLE
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