Killed: meaning, definitions and examples

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killed

 

[ kɪld ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

action, past

The term 'killed' is the past tense of the verb 'kill', which means to cause the death of a living being or to end the life of something. It can refer to both humans and animals and is often used in various contexts, from hunting to warfare. Additionally, it may be used metaphorically to describe the ending of non-living things, such as ideas or projects. The use of 'killed' can often evoke strong emotions, depending on the context in which it is used, including loss, violence, or destruction.

Synonyms

destroyed, executed, slaughtered, terminated.

Examples of usage

  • He killed the mosquito buzzing near his ear.
  • They killed time until the movie started.
  • The soldier was honored for having killed the enemy leader.
  • The disease killed thousands in the outbreak.

Translations

Translations of the word "killed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 morto

🇮🇳 मारा

🇩🇪 getötet

🇮🇩 dibunuh

🇺🇦 вбитий

🇵🇱 zabity

🇯🇵 殺された

🇫🇷 tué

🇪🇸 asesinado

🇹🇷 öldürülmüş

🇰🇷 죽은

🇸🇦 مقتول

🇨🇿 zabitý

🇸🇰 zabitý

🇨🇳 被杀

🇸🇮 umorjen

🇮🇸 drepinn

🇰🇿 өлтірілген

🇬🇪 მოკლული

🇦🇿 öldürülmüş

🇲🇽 asesinado

Etymology

The word 'kill' originates from the Old English term 'cyllan', which means to strike or to slay. This word is related to the Proto-Germanic term 'keldwaz', which implies to strike down or to cause to fall. Over time, the meaning expanded and evolved into the more generalized concept of causing death or injury. The transition from 'cyllan' to modern forms of 'kill' reflects the linguistic shifts that occurred through the Middle English period. By the time the word became 'killed' in the past tense, it had gained widespread usage in various contexts, including law, warfare, and animal husbandry. The emotionally charged nature of the term has kept it relevant throughout history, as it evokes significant reactions whether in literature, history, or contemporary discourse.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,550, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.