Moribund - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

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SKIP TO CONTENT moribund /ˌmɔrəˈbʌnd/ IPA guide

Something that is moribund is almost dead, like a moribund economy that has been stuck in a recession for years.

In Latin, mori means "to die." You probably recognize this root in words like mortal, mortician, and mortuary. Moribund means "near death," but it can also mean something that is coming to an end, nearly obsolete, or stagnant. For example, as streaming videos over the Internet becomes a more and more popular way to watch movies and television shows, the DVD has become a moribund medium.

Definitions of moribund

adjective being on the point of death; breathing your last “a moribund patient” synonyms: dying in or associated with the process of passing from life or ceasing to be
adjective not growing or changing; without force or vitality synonyms: stagnant adynamic, undynamic characterized by an absence of force or forcefulness

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Copy citation DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘moribund'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback Commonly confused words

morbid / moribund

Morbid describes something gruesome, like smallpox or Frankenstein's monster. Moribund refers to the act of dying. Goths love both. What fun!

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