Definition

The act of killing a large number of people or animals, often in a violent or brutal way.

Example

The slaughter of innocent animals for food raises ethical questions.

Conversation

Did you hear about the movie that depicts a historical slaughter?

Yeah, I heard it's pretty intense and not for the faint-hearted.

I can't believe how some films portray such events; the slaughter can be really hard to watch.

True, but it often brings awareness to the real tragedies that happened.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To kill animals for food or to kill people in large numbers, often in a violent way.

Example

The farmer decided to slaughter the pigs for the market.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the new restaurant that slaughters their own meat?

Yeah, I read about it! They say it's fresher that way.

I wonder how they handle the whole slaughter process, though.

Root Explanation

Slaughter → It originates from Old English 'sleaht' (meaning a killing or slaughter) and is related to the Proto-Germanic '*slauhtwō' (meaning to slay). The word refers to the act of killing, especially in a violent or brutal manner.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word 'sleaht' which means a killing — this helps you remember that 'slaughter' refers to the act of killing, often in a violent way.

Visually Confused Words