What is the origin of the idiom "be the death of someone" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "be the death of someone" can be traced back to the 17th century. The phrase draws on the concept of something being so burdensome or aggravating that it metaphorically leads to a person's demise or extreme frustration. This expression can be used when discussing interpersonal conflicts, troublesome situations, or persistent irritations that have a detrimental effect on someone's well-being.