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Decapitation: meaning, definitions and examples

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decapitation

 

[ ˌdɛkəˈpeɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

act of killing

Decapitation is the act of beheading, which involves the removal of the head from the body. This method of execution has been used historically in various cultures as a means of punishment or during warfare. It can be carried out using different instruments, including swords and guillotines. In modern contexts, decapitation may also refer to the surgical removal of the head in medical procedures or to symbolic acts of severing ties or relationships.

Synonyms

beheading, execution, killing, slaying

Examples of usage

  • The historical records mention decapitation as a common punishment.
  • The film depicted a dramatic scene of decapitation during a battle.
  • During the revolution, many were executed by decapitation.
  • The news reported on the shocking act of decapitation that occurred.
  • In some cultures, decapitation was seen as an honorable way to die.

Translations

Translations of the word "decapitation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 decapitação

🇮🇳 विभाजन

🇩🇪 Enthauptung

🇮🇩 pencabutan kepala

🇺🇦 декапітація

🇵🇱 dekapitacja

🇯🇵 首切り

🇫🇷 décapitation

🇪🇸 decapitación

🇹🇷 başsız bırakma

🇰🇷 참수

🇸🇦 قطع الرأس

🇨🇿 dekapitace

🇸🇰 dekapitácia

🇨🇳 斩首

🇸🇮 dekapitacija

🇮🇸 afhöfðun

🇰🇿 басын кесу

🇬🇪 დეკაპიტაცია

🇦🇿 başsız buraxma

🇲🇽 decapitación

Word origin

The term 'decapitation' originates from the Latin word 'decapitare', which is a combination of 'de-' meaning 'down from' and 'caput' meaning 'head'. The use of the term in the English language dates back to the late Middle Ages, reflecting a period where beheading was a common method of execution in Europe. Throughout history, decapitation has been employed as a form of capital punishment in numerous civilizations, signifying a range of cultural, religious, and societal practices. In many cases, it was viewed as a 'noble' death, especially among warriors. The word has evolved to include not just physical beheading but also metaphorical uses in discussions about severing ties or overcoming challenges.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,264, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.