Definition

The quality or state of being inclined to commit murder or showing a desire to kill.

Example

The film explored the murderousness of the villain, revealing his dark motivations.

Conversation

Did you read that book about the detective's struggle with his own murderousness?

Yeah, it was pretty intense and dark, right?

I never thought about how inner conflicts can lead to such murderousness in a character.

Same here! It really made me think about the psychology behind it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Murderousness → It is formed from "murder" (from Old French *murder*, meaning the unlawful killing of a human being) and "-ous" (meaning full of) and "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "murderousness" refers to the quality or state of being full of murder or inclined to kill.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'murder' which means unlawful killing, and remember that 'murderousness' describes the quality of being inclined to kill.

Visually Confused Words