VocabDictionary

homicide

/ˈhɒm.ɪ.saɪd/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The killing of one human being by another, regardless of intent or legality.

Example Sentences:
  • The police are currently investigating the case as a homicide.
  • The city has seen a significant decrease in the annual homicide rate.
2.noun

The department of a police force that is responsible for investigating murders.

Example Sentences:
  • He spent ten years working in homicide before being promoted to captain.
  • The homicide detective arrived at the crime scene within minutes.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “homicide”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

The term originates from the Old French 'homicide', which was derived from the Latin 'homicidium' (the act of killing) and 'homicida' (the killer). These Latin roots are a combination of 'homo' (human being) and '-cidium' (a killing), from the verb 'caedere' (to cut, kill). It entered the English language in the 14th century.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'Homo' (as in Homo sapiens, meaning human) + 'cide' (as in pesticide or suicide, meaning killing). Homicide is the killing of a human.

Frequently Asked Questions About “homicide

1. What is the meaning of “homicide” in English?

In English, homicide (noun) is defined as: “The killing of one human being by another, regardless of intent or legality.”.

2. How do you use “homicide” in a sentence?

The police are currently investigating the case as a homicide.

3. What are English synonyms of “homicide”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “homicide”?

The term originates from the Old French 'homicide', which was derived from the Latin 'homicidium' (the act of killing) and 'homicida' (the killer). These Latin roots are a combination of 'homo' (human being) and '-cidium' (a killing), from the verb 'caedere' (to cut, kill). It entered the English language in the 14th century.