sudden death

noun

1

: unexpected death that is instantaneous or occurs within minutes from any cause other than violence

sudden death following coronary occlusion

2

: extra play to break a tie in a sports contest in which the first to score or gain the lead wins

Examples of sudden death in a Sentence

We won 27–24 in sudden death.

a serious heart condition that can result in sudden death

Recent Examples on the Web

Thanks for Phan’s contributions came rolling in Tuesday from chefs, restaurateurs and civic leaders saddened by news of the chef’s sudden death. —Linda Zavoral, The Mercury News, 22 Jan. 2025

The pic is an adaption of Max Porter’s novel about a grieving father wrestling with the sudden death of his wife while also raising their young children. —Zac Ntim, Deadline, 16 Jan. 2025

Halifax Regional Police had responded on a report of a sudden death to the Walmart at 6990 Mumford Rd. —Marlene Lenthang, NBC News, 18 Nov. 2024

Aubrey Plaza has addressed the shocking sudden death of her husband and longtime creative partner Jeff Baena. —Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 7 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

sudden death

noun

: extra play to break a tie in a sports contest in which the first to score or gain the lead wins

Medical Definition

sudden death

noun

: unexpected death that is instantaneous or occurs within minutes or hours from any cause other than violence

sudden death following coronary occlusion

especially : sudden cardiac death