Dutch act

1. The act of committing suicide. The disparaging use of the word "Dutch" is a reference to the fierce rivalry between England and the Dutch in the 17th century. After her daughter died, we were worried that Mary might be tempted to do the Dutch act. Because she always seemed so happy and upbeat, I was shocked to hear that she had done the Dutch act. Poor Jerry, he did the Dutch act when he lost his job.

2. The act of deserting or fleeing from something, especially military duty. (See above for origin.) Robert is likely to be court-martialed for doing the Dutch act while on active duty in Iraq. I know you're new to the force, but you can't just do the Dutch act. Your superiors need to know where you are at all times. I'm not surprised you did the Dutch act before our big offensive. You always were a coward.

the Dutch act

and the Dutch cure

n. suicide. Well, Ken took the Dutch cure last week. So sad. It was the Dutch act. He ate his gun.