Formal or literary term for death, often used in historical or solemn contexts.
彼の辞世は静かで、家族に見守られていた。
His passing was peaceful, surrounded by family.
death poem; dying words
Specifically refers to a poem or final words composed when facing death, especially in classical Japanese culture.
辞世の句を詠んで、武士は静かに息を引き取った。
The samurai composed his death poem and quietly passed away.
From 辞 (to take leave) + 世 (world). The sense of 'death poem' developed from the practice of composing a final poem upon leaving the world.