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like death warmed up
01
extremely tired or unwell
What is the origin of the idiom "like death warmed up" and when to use it?
The exact origin of the phrase "like death warmed up" is unclear, but it likely emerged as an exaggerated way to describe someone's extremely sick or unhealthy appearance. The phrase conveys the idea that the person looks as if they have experienced the state of death and have been brought back to life. It is often used informally to describe a person's sickly or worn-out appearance.
Example
The intense heat during the marathon left many runners finishing the race like death warmed up, completely drained of energy.
John's exhausting work schedule and lack of sleep made him appear at the family gathering like death warmed up, prompting concerns about his well-being.
The flu had taken a toll on Lisa, and when she attended the social event, she seemed like death warmed up, unable to fully participate in the festivities.
Alex had been working consecutive night shifts, and by the end of the week, he appeared at the office like death warmed up.
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