toll or sound the death knell

toll or sound the death knell

Meaning:
Cause an organization, system or activity to fail or end

Examples:
1. The shutdown of the local iron industry tolled the death knell for the village.
2. Recent changes of software in cell phones sound the death knell for several popular models.
3. Resign of such a loyal manager might sound the death knell for that store.

Origin:
The noun knell, used for the ringing of a bell since at least A.D. 1000, is rarely heard today except in this figurative phrase.