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Killer - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A killer is someone or something that causes death, often violently. It can also describe something extremely effective or impressive, like a killer performance or a killer joke. The term is used both literally and informally.

killer

/ˈkɪlɚ/ /ˈkɪlə/

Definition:

A person or thing that kills, or a highly effective or impressive thing.

Synonyms:

murderer, assassin, slayer, executioner

Part of Speech:

noun, adjective

Antonyms:

savior, protector

Common Collocations:

serial killer, killer instinct, killer whale, killer app

Derivatives:

killing, killable

Usage Tips:

Use "killer" as a noun for someone who kills or as an adjective to describe something extremely effective or impressive.

Common Phrases:

killer instinct, lady killer, killer app

Etymology:

From Middle English "killen," meaning to strike or kill; later generalized to mean causing death or extreme effectiveness.

Examples:

  • 1. The killer was finally caught by the police.
  • 2. She has a killer smile that lights up the room.
  • 3. The new software is a killer app for businesses.
  • 4. He felt like a lady killer in his new suit.

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