last glow of sunset; final burst of activity before death or collapse
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
afterglow; the glow in the sky just after sunset caused by atmospheric refraction
literaryThis is the original, literal meaning describing a natural optical phenomenon.
As the sun set, a brief and magnificent afterglow appeared on the horizon.
Poets often use the imagery of the evening glow to describe dusk.
noun
momentary rally before death; last flicker of life; temporary revival before final end
A very common metaphorical usage. It describes a deceptive, transient recovery or surge in activity that immediately precedes death, decline, or collapse.
The patient who had been in a coma for days suddenly became clear-headed, able to eat and talk, but the doctor said it was just a momentary rally before death.
The company's profits soared last quarter, but this is likely just a temporary revival before its bankruptcy.
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The various reforms of the feudal dynasty on the eve of its collapse are regarded by historians as a last flicker of life.
The elderly man suddenly sat up in high spirits during his final moments, but his family understood it was the last glow before the light goes out.