Why do we say "the battery died"?

The phrase "the battery died" is a metaphorical expression used to describe when a battery no longer has enough power to function properly. It is commonly used to describe electronic devices or vehicles that stop working due to a depleted battery. The term "died" is used to convey the idea that the battery has reached the end of its usable life or power capacity.

The term "battery died" is used figuratively to describe the state of a battery when it can no longer provide sufficient power to operate a device.

Historical Analogy:

In early electrical systems, such as in ignition systems of internal combustion engines, a single storage cell (the "battery") was used to provide the initial spark. When the battery was exhausted (i.e., it could not generate a sufficient voltage), the engine would not start. The battery was said to have "died," as it was no longer able to perform its function.

Usage in Modern Battery Technology:

The term "died" has persisted in use even with the widespread adoption of rechargeable batteries. When a battery is fully discharged and can no longer hold a charge, it is said to have "died."

Biological Analogy:

The use of the term "died" also draws an analogy to the end of life in living organisms. When a living organism is no longer able to maintain homeostasis and sustain its physiological functions, it is said to have died. Similarly, a battery can be considered to have "died" when it can no longer perform its function of providing electrical energy.

Metaphorical Meaning:

The phrase "the battery died" has become a common figure of speech that conveys the idea of something becoming inoperative or unusable due to exhaustion of energy. It is used in both literal and figurative contexts, such as when describing the state of a power tool, a watch, or even a human body.