Behead: meaning, definitions and examples
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behead
[ bɪˈhɛd ]
execution method
To behead someone means to cut off their head, usually as a form of execution or punishment. This act has been historically associated with various cultures and periods, serving as a method of capital punishment. It is often depicted in literature and film as a brutal and dramatic way to end a life. Beheading can also have symbolic meanings in certain contexts, representing the overthrow of authority or the end of a dynasty.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The king ordered to behead the traitor.
- In ancient times, to behead a prisoner was a common method of execution.
- The executioner was tasked to behead the accused.
- Beheading has been portrayed in many historical dramas.
Translations
Translations of the word "behead" in other languages:
🇵🇹 decapitar
🇮🇳 सिर काटना
🇩🇪 enthaupten
🇮🇩 memenggal
🇺🇦 відрубати голову
🇵🇱 ściąć głowę
🇯🇵 首をはねる
🇫🇷 décapiter
🇪🇸 decapitar
🇹🇷 başını kesmek
🇰🇷 목을 베다
🇸🇦 قطع الرأس
🇨🇿 sťat hlavu
🇸🇰 odseknúť hlavu
🇨🇳 斩首
🇸🇮 obglaviti
🇮🇸 afhöggva
🇰🇿 басын кесу
🇬🇪 თავის მოჭრა
🇦🇿 baş kəsmək
🇲🇽 decapitar
Word origin
The word 'behead' originates from the Old English term 'beheafdian,' which is a combination of 'be-' meaning 'to make' and 'heafd' referring to 'head.' It has been used in English since at least the 12th century to denote the act of severing the head from the body. Historically, beheading was considered a noble form of execution and was often reserved for people of high status, such as nobles or royalty. Over the centuries, it became a common method of capital punishment in various cultures around the world, featuring prominently during the Middle Ages and the French Revolution. The term continues to be used in modern language, reflecting both judicial executions and violent acts in popular media.