Holocaust: meaning, definitions and examples

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holocaust

[ˈhɒləkɔːst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

history

The Holocaust was the systematic, state-sponsored persecution and murder of six million Jews by the Nazi regime and its allies. It also included the persecution and murder of millions of other people, including Romani people, disabled individuals, and others.

Synonyms

extermination, genocide, massacre.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
holocaust	Holocaust is often used to refer to the mass murder of Jews and other groups by the Nazis during World War II. It is a term with specific historical connotations and is usually used in educational, historical, or memorial contexts. The Holocaust was one of the darkest chapters in human history. Many survivors of the Holocaust have shared their stories to ensure we never forget.
genocide	Genocide is used to describe acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group. It is a legal term used in international law and human rights discussions. The international community has a responsibility to prevent and punish acts of genocide. The genocide in Rwanda left an indelible mark on the nation's history.
massacre	Massacre refers to the brutal and indiscriminate killing of a large number of people. It often implies a sudden, violent attack on unarmed or defenseless individuals and is frequently used in media reports and historical records. The massacre of innocent villagers shocked the entire nation. Eyewitnesses testified about the horrors they witnessed during the massacre.
extermination	Extermination broadly refers to the act of completely destroying or wiping out a group of people, animals, or other entities. It conveys a sense of thorough and deliberate destruction and is often used in discussions about systematic efforts to eliminate populations. The extermination of the indigenous species was a tragic consequence of the invasive species introduction. During the war, there was a brutal extermination campaign against the civilians.

Examples of usage

The Holocaust was one of the darkest periods in human history.
Many families were torn apart during the Holocaust.
The Holocaust survivors shared their stories to ensure that such atrocities never happen again.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general

A destruction or slaughter on a mass scale, especially caused by fire or nuclear war.

Synonyms

catastrophe, devastation, disaster.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
holocaust	This word is best used to describe a large-scale destruction or slaughter, especially by fire, and is most commonly associated with the genocide of Jews during World War II. Its usage can be sensitive and should be applied with respect and caution. The Holocaust is remembered as one of the darkest periods in human history. The wildfire turned the forest into a holocaust of ashes.
catastrophe	This term fits situations of sudden and extensive disaster, especially those resulting in significant damage or loss. It can be used for both natural and man-made events. The earthquake was a catastrophe that left thousands homeless. Financial mismanagement led to an economic catastrophe.
disaster	Disaster is a broad term for an event that causes significant damage, destruction, or distress. It can be used for natural events like earthquakes or human-caused incidents like accidents. The flood was a disaster that required international aid. His presentation was a complete disaster due to technical issues.
devastation	Devastation refers to severe and widespread destruction, often highlighting the aftermath of a disaster. This word emphasizes the extent of damage and emotional impact. The hurricane left a trail of devastation across the coastal towns. She felt a sense of devastation after learning about the accident.

Examples of usage

The forest fire was a holocaust, destroying thousands of acres of land.
The nuclear holocaust in the movie depicted a post-apocalyptic world.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term originates from Greek, meaning 'sacrifice by fire,' but its modern connotation is associated with the genocide of Jews during World War II.
The Holocaust took place from 1941 to 1945, leading to the deaths of approximately six million Jews and millions of others including Romani people, disabled individuals, and political dissidents.
The Nazi regime employed systematic extermination methods, including concentration camps and mass shootings, to carry out this atrocity.

Literature

Many survivors have shared their experiences through powerful memoirs, with Anne Frank's diary becoming one of the most notable accounts of life during this dark period.
The Holocaust has inspired numerous novels, films, and plays, serving as a reminder of the dangers of hatred and intolerance.
Literary works often explore themes of memory, loss, and resilience, emphasizing the importance of remembering the past.

Psychology

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is prevalent among survivors, as many continue to cope with the trauma of their experiences long after the events.
The effects of collective trauma can influence generations, impacting descendants of survivors through inherited trauma and story-telling.
Understanding such tragedies is essential for developing empathy and combating prejudice in contemporary society.

Education

Holocaust education is crucial in schools worldwide, aiming to teach students about tolerance, respect for diversity, and the importance of standing up against injustice.
Various institutions and museums, such as Yad Vashem in Israel and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, serve as educational hubs for memory and awareness.
The teaching of this topic encourages critical thinking about human rights and the consequences of discrimination, urging students to reflect on history.

Pop Culture

Films like 'Schindler's List' and 'The Pianist' bring Holocaust stories to the forefront, making them accessible and engaging for wider audiences.
Documentaries and fictional stories provide a platform for discussions about morality, compassion, and the human condition during extreme adversity.
Commemorative events, such as Holocaust Remembrance Day, are observed globally, reinforcing the ongoing significance of remembering this period.

Translations

Translations of the word "holocaust" in other languages:

🇵🇹 holocausto

🇮🇳 प्रलय (Pralay)

🇩🇪 Holocaust

🇮🇩 Holocaust

🇺🇦 голокост

🇵🇱 holokaust

🇯🇵 ホロコースト (Horokōsuto)

🇫🇷 Holocauste

🇪🇸 Holocausto

🇹🇷 Holokost

🇰🇷 홀로코스트 (Hollokoseuteu)

🇸🇦 الهولوكوست (al-Hulukūst)

🇨🇿 holocaust

🇸🇰 holokaust

🇨🇳 大屠杀 (dàtúshā)

🇸🇮 holokavst

🇮🇸 helför

🇰🇿 Холокост

🇬🇪 ჰოლოკოსტი (holok'osti)

🇦🇿 Holokost

🇲🇽 Holocausto

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,269, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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22266 jugs
22267 storied
22268 dampened
22269 holocaust
22270 witted
22271 encircle
22272 privatized
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