Reaper: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used in literature, movies, and folklore to personify death, typically depicted as a hooded figure with a scythe. It can also be used in a metaphorical sense to mean someone or something that causes death.

• The legend says the reaper comes to guide souls to the afterlife
• // The war was a ruthless reaper, taking countless lives

A general term used to describe the end of life. It can be used in everyday conversations, medical contexts, and various forms of media. This term is neutral and factual.

• Death is an inevitable part of life
• // The death of the famous actor shocked the world

Used in religious or mythological contexts to refer to a divine or supernatural being tasked with bringing death or guiding souls. It can be found in various religious texts and often denotes a powerful, sometimes merciful, figure.

• In many religions, the angel of death is seen as a guide for souls
• // The angel of death was said to appear during the plague, claiming many lives

Typically used in literature and dramatic storytelling to refer to an omen or sign that death is approaching. It carries a foreboding or ominous tone and suggests that something or someone will bring about or signal death.

• The crow on the windowsill was seen as a harbinger of death
• // In ancient tales, comets were often considered harbingers of death and disaster