online vocabulary.com

Decapitation - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Decapitation is the act of cutting off someone’s head, typically as a form of execution or in violent conflict. It results in immediate death due to severe trauma.

decapitation

/dɪˌkæpɪˈteɪʃən/ /diːˌkæpɪˈteɪʃən/

Definition:

The act of cutting off the head, typically as a form of execution or in warfare.

Synonyms:

beheading, execution, guillotining

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

preservation, restoration

Common Collocations:

public decapitation, ritual decapitation, decapitation strike

Derivatives:

decapitate, decapitated, decapitator

Usage Tips:

Use "decapitation" to describe the removal of a head, often in historical or violent contexts; avoid casual usage.

Common Phrases:

"decapitation strike, " "ritual decapitation, " "symbolic decapitation"

Etymology:

From Latin "decapitare," meaning "to cut off the head," from "de-" (off) + "caput" (head).

Examples:

  • 1. The medieval execution involved public decapitation as a warning.
  • 2. Decapitation was a common punishment in ancient civilizations for treason.
  • 3. The horror movie featured a scene of gruesome decapitation by a masked killer.
  • 4. Military strategists sometimes target leaders in a decapitation strike to cripple enemy forces.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS