be the death of somebody

be the death of (one)

To be a source of extreme worry, distress, aggravation, or other effects too intense for one to endure. You'll be the death of me! Please call if you're going to be home late, so I don't worry. I swear, this project will be the death of us. We're working 80-hour weeks just to get it done before the deadline. Yes, Bobby had to get yet another round of stitches, this time because he jumped off the slide at the park. I swear, this kid will be the death of me!

See also: death, of

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

be the ˈdeath of somebody

(often humorous) cause somebody a lot of harm or worry: You children are so badly behaved! You’ll be the death of me one day!

See also: death, of, somebody

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017