Definition

Relating to or having thoughts about taking one's own life; often associated with feelings of extreme sadness or hopelessness.

Example

He was feeling suicidal and needed to talk to someone about his feelings.

Conversation

I heard from Tom that you’ve been feeling a bit down lately.

Yeah, it's been tough, and sometimes I feel really suicidal about everything.

I'm really sorry to hear that; have you thought about talking to someone?

I think that might help, but it’s hard to take that first step.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Suicidal → It is formed from "sui-" (from Latin "sui", meaning of oneself) and "-cidium" (from Latin "caedere", meaning to kill). The word "suicidal" refers to the act of killing oneself, hence relating to one's own self.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sui' meaning 'of oneself' and 'caedere' meaning 'to kill' — this helps you remember that 'suicidal' relates to the act of harming oneself.

Visually Confused Words