Definition

The act of killing one's own brother or sister, or a person with a close relationship like that of a sibling.

Example

The war led to many tragic cases of fratricide among the soldiers.

Conversation

Did you hear about that movie that deals with fratricide?

Yeah, it sounds really intense and tragic.

I can't believe people can actually commit such acts against their own family.

It's heartbreaking, but it does happen in real life too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fratricide is formed from "frater" (meaning brother) and "-cide" (from Latin "caedere", meaning to kill). The word refers to the act of killing one's brother.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'frater' for brother and '-cide' for killing — that's why fratricide means the act of killing a brother.

Visually Confused Words