Definition

Describing something that has been made inactive or rendered unable to cause infection, often used in medical contexts.

Example

The doctor recommended a killed vaccine to protect against the disease.

Conversation

I heard they just released a new vaccine that uses a killed virus.

Really? That sounds promising for preventing infections.

Yeah, it's supposed to be safer than live virus vaccines.

I hope it works well and helps everyone stay healthy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Killed → This word originates from Old English 'cwellan', meaning to cause to die or to put to death. The word 'killed' refers to the act of causing death to someone or something.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word 'cwellan' which means to cause to die — this helps you remember that 'killed' means to have caused death.

Visually Confused Words