Extremis

/ɪkˈstremiːs/ noun

Definition

The phrase 'in extremis' (Latin) meaning in a critical situation, at the point of death, or in dire circumstances requiring immediate action.

Etymology

From Latin 'in extremis' meaning 'in the last/final state.' Extremis comes from extremus (outermost, last). Still used in English legal and medical contexts as a Latin phrase.

Kelly Says

Lawyers and doctors still use 'in extremis' because it has a precise legal meaning—dying wishes made 'in extremis' have special weight in court, and soldiers operate 'in extremis' when under fire!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.