Definition

Noun: A euphemistic phrase for death, suggesting a state of peaceful, unending sleep or repose. It is based on the analogy between lying in a bed and lying in a tomb.

Usage

This phrase is used in formal, respectful, or literary contexts to refer to death in a gentle, comforting, or less harsh way than direct terms like "death" or "dying." It often implies a final, peaceful state.

Examples

• After a long and difficult illness, she was finally granted eternal rest.
• The monument stands in memory of those who have found their eternal rest.
• He wished for nothing more than eternal rest after his life of toil.

Advanced Usage

• To be laid to eternal rest: This is a common collocation describing the act of burial or final commemoration.
  • The soldiers were laid to eternal rest with full military honors.
• To find eternal rest: This phrasing emphasizes the deceased attaining this state.
  • May his soul find eternal rest.

Variants and Related Words

• Rest (noun): When used in a similar context (e.g., "final rest," "laid to rest"), it carries the same euphemistic meaning for death.
• Eternal sleep: A very close synonym, using the same metaphorical concept.
• To put to sleep: A euphemism for causing the death of an animal, usually to end suffering.

Synonyms

• Eternal sleep
• Final rest
• Demise (more formal, but less euphemistic)
• Passing (euphemistic)

Related Phrases

• To lay to rest: This phrasal verb means to bury someone who has died.
  • They will lay their grandfather to rest this weekend.
• Rest in peace (R.I.P.): A common epitaph or wish for the deceased.
  • The headstone was inscribed with the words "Rest in Peace."

Related Idioms

• At rest: A state of being dead.
  • He is now at rest and free from pain.

Noun

1. euphemisms for death (based on an analogy between lying in a bed and in a tomb)
   • she was laid to rest beside her husband
   • they had to put their family pet to sleep