Mōr'tal1, a.
a. [Lat. mortalis, from mors, mortis, death, from moriri, to die; It. mortale, Sp. & Pr. mortal, Fr. mortel.]
Sense 1. Subject to death; destined to die; as, man is mortal.
Sense 2. Destructive to life; causing or occasioning death; terminating life; exposing to or deserving death; as, a mortal wound or injury; a mortal sin.
The fruit Of that forbidden tree whose mortal taste Brought death into the world, and all our woe. Milton.
Sense 3. Admitting death; accessible to the action or influence of death.
Last of all, against himself he turns his sword, but missing the mortal place, with his poniard finishes the work. Milton.
Safe in the hand of one disposing Power, Or in the natal or the mortal hour. Pope.
Sense 4. Hence, affecting as if with power to kill; extreme; violent; vexing; tormenting.
The nymph grew pale, and in a mortal fright. Dryden.
Sense 5. Human; belonging to man, who is mortal; as, mortal wit or knowledge; mortal power.
The voice of God To mortal ear is dreadful. Milton.
Mortal foe, or enemy, an inveterate, desperate, or implacable enemy; a foe bent on one's destruction.