Beheaded: meaning, definitions and examples
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beheaded
[bɪˈhɛdɪd ]
Definition
execution method
To beheaded is to undergo the act of beheading, which involves removing the head from the body, typically performed as a form of capital punishment. This ghastly act has historical significance, often associated with monarchies and legal executions in various cultures. In contemporary usage, the term may also refer to metaphorical expressions where someone is deprived of power or leadership, essentially rendering them powerless.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The knight was beheaded for treason.
- The movie depicted the brutal beheading of the captured soldiers.
- In ancient times, beheading was a common punishment for severe crimes.
- He felt as if he had been beheaded after losing his job.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The practice of beheading has roots in ancient civilizations as a method of execution, seen as a swift and dignified way to end life.
- In medieval England, beheading was reserved for nobles and was often done with a sword, while commoners were typically hanged.
Literature
- Beheading is a common theme in many classic novels and stories, symbolizing the end of an era or a significant change in power.
- In 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow', the Headless Horseman is a famous character whose backstory speaks to the fear and fascination with beheaded figures.
Cultural Practices
- Various cultures have used the concept symbolically; for instance, beheading can represent the act of removing something undesirable or corrupt.
- In some traditions, beheaded figures appear in folklore as supernatural beings or as cautionary tales to dissuade immoral behavior.
Modern Context
- Today, the term 'beheaded' is often used metaphorically in media or discussions about severe consequences for actions, sometimes exaggerating a point.
- Beheading as a method of punishment is still practiced in certain parts of the world, provoking debates about human rights and justice.
Psychology
- The fear of beheading, or decapitation, can be linked to deep-seated anxieties about mortality and loss of identity.
- Studies show that graphic depictions of beheading in media can desensitize individuals or trigger strong emotional responses.
Translations
Translations of the word "beheaded" in other languages:
🇵🇹 decapitado
🇮🇳 सिर काटा हुआ
🇩🇪 enthauptet
🇮🇩 dipenggal
🇺🇦 відрубаний
🇵🇱 ścięty
🇯🇵 首を切られた
🇫🇷 décapité
🇪🇸 decapitado
🇹🇷 başsız
🇰🇷 목이 베인
🇸🇦 مُقطوع الرأس
🇨🇿 sťatý
🇸🇰 sťatý
🇨🇳 被斩首
🇸🇮 obglavljen
🇮🇸 höggvinn
🇰🇿 басынан айырылған
🇬🇪 თავგატეხილი
🇦🇿 başsız
🇲🇽 decapitado