Definition

To severely damage or destroy a part of something, especially a body part, making it unusable or disfigured.

Example

The accident caused him to mutilate his hand, leaving him unable to use it properly.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about that art exhibit where someone tried to mutilate a famous sculpture?

Yeah, I read about that! It's so shocking that someone would do that to art.

I know, right? It's like they wanted to destroy something beautiful and meaningful.

Absolutely, it just shows how some people don't appreciate art at all.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mutilate → It is formed from "mutilare" (meaning to cut off or to maim) which comes from the Latin root "mutilus" (meaning mutilated or maimed). The word "mutilate" means to severely damage or disfigure by cutting off a part of something.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin root 'mutilus' which means maimed or damaged — this helps you remember that to mutilate means to severely damage or disfigure something.

Visually Confused Words