Definition

A person who strangles another person, often using a cord or wire, typically from behind.

Example

The detective was on the lookout for the garroter who had been terrorizing the neighborhood.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a garroter?

Yeah, I read about them in a crime novel once.

It's such a dark character, right?

Definitely, it's scary how someone could use a garroter without anyone noticing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Garroter comes from the French word 'garrotter', which means to bind or tie up. The root 'garrot-' is derived from 'garrotte', meaning a noose or a cord used for strangling. The suffix '-er' indicates a person who performs an action. Thus, a garroter is a person who binds or strangles someone with a cord or noose.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'binds' ('garrotte') another person with a 'cord' or 'noose' — that's why a garroter is someone who strangles.

Visually Confused Words