decapitated
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈkæpɪˌteɪtɪd/
KK: /dɪˈkæpɪˌteɪtɪd/
adjective
Definition
Having had the head cut off or removed.
Example
The statue was found decapitated, with its head missing.
Conversation
Did you see that movie with the decapitated characters?
Yeah, it was pretty wild!
I can't believe how realistic the special effects were.
I know, right? It added so much to the horror vibe.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
beheaded
headless
severed
Antonyms
headed
intact
complete
verb
Definition
To remove the head from a body.
Example
The ancient punishment for treason was to have the traitor decapitated.
Tense Forms
Past: decapitated
Past Participle: decapitated
Conversation
Did you hear about that movie where the villain gets decapitated?
Yeah, I heard it was pretty gruesome but entertaining!
I can't believe they actually showed it on screen.
Root Explanation
Decapitated → It 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 decapitated means to have the head removed.
Visually Confused Words
capitated
capitate
decrepitate
undercapitaled
capitaled