Adjective
/moriˈβundo/
"Moribundo" is an adjective used to describe something that is on the verge of death or in a state of decline. In a general context, it can refer to a person who is close to death, but it can also be applied metaphorically to situations, organizations, or concepts that are struggling, fading, or in a state of deterioration.
"Moribundo" is commonly used in both oral and written Spanish, though it may appear more in literary or formal contexts where a more poetic or dramatic tone is desired. The frequency of use can vary, but in general discourse, it tends to be less common than simpler terms like "muriendo" (dying).
The patient was dying, and the doctors could do nothing more.
La economía del país se encuentra en un estado moribundo.
The country's economy is in a moribund state.
La industria del carbón se ha vuelto moribunda en las últimas décadas.
While "moribundo" itself isn't part of widely recognized idiomatic expressions, it can still contribute to various phrases that convey decline or deterioration. Here are some examples:
La biblioteca del pueblo estaba en un estado moribundo debido a la falta de fondos.
Un proyecto moribundo (A moribund project)
El proyecto de renovación urbana se ha convertido en un proyecto moribundo por la falta de apoyo gubernamental.
Sentirse moribundo (To feel moribund)
The word "moribundo" comes from the Latin "moribundus," which translates to "dying" or "about to die." It is derived from "mori," meaning "to die." This root is reflected in other Spanish words related to death, such as "morir" (to die).
Synonyms: - Muriendo (dying) - Agonizante (agonizing) - Decaído (declining)
Antonyms: - Vivo (alive) - Saludable (healthy) - Vigente (current/active)