Definition

1. Noun:
   • A final performance or effort: This refers to the last work or performance given by someone, especially before retirement or death. The term originates from the ancient belief that swans sing a beautiful, final song just before they die.
   • A final appearance or manifestation: It can also describe the last time something is seen, used, or occurs.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The veteran actor's role in that film was his swan song; he retired from acting shortly after its release.
  • The composer's final symphony is considered his magnificent swan song to the classical world.
  • This old, crumbling theater is giving its swan song performance tonight before it closes for good.

Advanced Usage

• Used metaphorically: While often used for artistic or professional finales, it can apply to any concluding act.
  • The CEO's last strategic plan was her swan song, aiming to secure the company's future before she stepped down.
• In a broader context: It can refer to the last appearance or use of an object or tradition.
  • The vintage car's appearance in the parade was its swan song before being donated to a museum.

Variants and Related Words

• Finale (n): The last part of a piece of music, a performance, or a public event.
  • The concert ended with a spectacular finale.
• Last hurrah (n, idiomatic): A final effort, production, or appearance.
  • The politician's campaign was his last hurrah.
• Valedictory (adj/n): Serving as a farewell; a farewell address.
  • She gave a valedictory speech at her retirement party.

Synonyms

• Final performance
• Farewell appearance
• Culmination
• Last work

Related Phrases

• To bow out: To retire or leave gracefully.
  • After fifty years on stage, she decided to bow out with one last tour.
• To go out on a high note: To end something successfully or impressively.
  • The team lost the final, so they didn't get to go out on a high note.

Related Idioms

• The last act: The final part of a series of events.
  • Selling the family business was the last act in his career.
• Curtain call: The appearance of performers at the end of a show to acknowledge applause; can be used metaphorically for a final appearance.
  • His speech at the conference was a curtain call for his influential ideas.

Noun

1. a final performance or effort (especially before retirement)