in extremis

adverb

in ex·​tre·​mis ˌin-ik-ˈstrē-məs How to pronounce in extremis (audio) -ˈstrā- How to pronounce in extremis (audio)
: in extreme circumstances
especially : at the point of death

Examples of in extremis in a Sentence

They are helping a family in extremis.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That straight-sets defeat drove Alcaraz to tears such was the frustration at not being able to work out the equation that the 24-time Grand Slam champion brings on the other side of that net in extremis. Tim Ellis, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025 The decision to use airstrikes only in extremis virtually ensured defeat. Carter Malkasian, Foreign Affairs, 10 Feb. 2020 This is tenderness in extremis, veering into absurdity, concluding in irony. Karen Parker Lears, Harper's Magazine, 2 Dec. 2024 From pop to blues to prog and arena rock, art in extremis emerges as a theme in a raft of recent Rhino releases. Darryn King, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for in extremis 

Word History

Etymology

Latin

First Known Use

circa 1530, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of in extremis was circa 1530

Dictionary Entries Near in extremis

Cite this Entry

“In extremis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20extremis. Accessed 1 Feb. 2025.

Medical Definition

in extremis

adverb
in ex·​tre·​mis ˌin-ik-ˈstrē-məs How to pronounce in extremis (audio) -ˈstrā- How to pronounce in extremis (audio)
: at the point of death
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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