Dying words are a very special form of quotation. Some are rehearsed and contrived; others are spontaneous and witty.

'Famous last words' may be in the form of epitaphs, letters or even suicide notes, but are often impromptu sayings coined by and spoken by the dying person for the first (and, of course, last) time on their deathbed.

The list below gives us a glimpse into the character of the celebrated individuals who uttered their famous last words before expiring.

John Quincy Adams

(1767-1848) The final words of John Quincy Adams

This is the last of earth. I am content.

Said when he collapsed after a stroke in the US Senate.

Jane Austen

(1561-1626) The final words of Jane Austen

I want nothing but death.

Said to her sister Cassandra on her deathbed.

Sir Francis Bacon

(1561-1626) The final words of Sir Francis Bacon

For my name and memory, I leave it to men's charitable speeches, and to foreign nations, and the next ages.

The last lines in his will (his spoken last words are uncertain).

Lucille Ball

(1911-1985) The final words of Lucille Ball

My Florida water.

Said when asked if there was anything she wanted.

P. T. Barnum

(1810-1891) The final words of P. T. Barnum

Nancy, I want you to know my last thoughts are of you.

Said to his wife a few hours before he died.

Last words or final words are a person's final articulated words, stated prior to death or as death approaches. Last words may not necessarily be written down or accurately recorded, and they may not be quoted accurately for a variety of reasons.