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Region: General | Usage example: The tour was their swan song before going on hiatus.

Swan song

Meaning

The final act before retirement or death.

Usage

Describes a final performance or gesture.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Ancient belief that swans sing beautifully before dying.

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

Related Idioms

Last-ditch effort

A final attempt before giving up.

One for the road

A final drink before leaving.

Against the clock

Racing to finish before time runs out.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.