coup de grâce

noun \ˌkü-də-ˈgräs\

: an action or event that finally ends or destroys something that has been getting weaker or worse

: a hit or shot that kills a person or animal that is suffering

plural coups de grâce or coups de grace \ˌkü-də-\

Full Definition of COUP DE GRÂCE

: a deathblow or death shot administered to end the suffering of one mortally wounded

: a decisive finishing blow, act, or event

See coup de grâce defined for English-language learners

coup de grâce or coup de grace \ˌkü-də-ˈgräs\

French coup de grâce, literally, stroke of mercy

First Known Use: 1699

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