Search
Select the dictionary language
death pays all debts
01
used to suggest that when a person dies, any debts or obligations they may have had during their lifetime are considered to be settled or paid in full
Proverb
What is the origin of the proverb "death pays all debts" and when to use it?
The origin of the proverb "death pays all debts" is uncertain, but the concept appears in various forms across different cultures. It suggests that no matter how many debts or responsibilities a person has accumulated, death brings a final end to them, leaving all accounts closed. The proverb serves as a reminder of the finality of death and the fact that, in the end, material concerns are left behind.
Examples
For those who are struggling with debt and financial hardship, the saying 'death pays all debts' can be a comfort, knowing that their debts will not follow them into the afterlife.
