Definition

To cut off someone's head; to behead.

Example

The ancient punishment for treason was to decapitate the offender.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about that movie where they decapitate the villain at the end?

Yeah, I can't believe they went that far with it!

It was pretty shocking, but it made the plot more intense.

Exactly! It really kept me on the edge of my seat.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Decapitate is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "caput" (meaning head). The word describes the act of removing the head, as if taking it away from the body.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking away' ('de-') the 'head' ('caput') — that's why decapitate means to remove the head.

Visually Confused Words