Swan song

Meaning

The final act before retirement or death.

Usage

Describes a final performance or gesture.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Ancient belief that swans sing beautifully before dying.

Appears in Greek and Roman literature; kept alive in arts critiques.