Over my dead body Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Strong Emotion Use to convey extreme opposition or refusal, often with intense emotion. Hand over my secret recipe? Over my dead body! Pro Tip 2/3Hyperbolic Expression This phrase is an exaggeration and not a literal threat or wish. You want to pierce your ears? Over my dead body! Pro Tip 3/3Informal Usage Best suited for casual conversations, not formal settings. Skip college for a band? Over my dead body!