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Mass murder Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mass murder

[ˈmæs ˈmɜːrdər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

crime

The act of killing a large number of people, typically at the same time and in the same place, often carried out by a single individual or a group.

Synonyms

genocide, massacre, slaughter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mass murder

This term is used when describing the killing of a large number of people where the victims are often chosen indiscriminately. It often happens in a single location over a short period of time.

  • The police are investigating the mass murder that took place in the small town.
  • The event was described as a horrific mass murder of innocent bystanders.
massacre

A massacre generally refers to a brutal and indiscriminate killing of a large number of people, often in a particularly violent manner. It is commonly associated with a strategic or military attack.

  • Villagers were horrified by the news of the massacre in the nearby town.
  • The historical event is remembered as a tragic massacre of innocent lives.
slaughter

Slaughter typically conveys a vivid, gruesome image of killing large numbers of people or animals, often implying brutality and lack of humanity. It can sometimes carry a more negative connotation compared to 'massacre'.

  • The battlefield was a scene of unimaginable slaughter.
  • Critical reports highlight the slaughter of civilians during the attack.
genocide

Genocide refers to the systematic and intentional destruction of a particular ethnic, racial, or cultural group. It involves deliberate actions aimed at wiping out an entire group.

  • The international community condemned the genocide that occurred during the conflict.
  • Survivors of the genocide were granted asylum in several countries.

Examples of usage

  • His brutal mass murder shocked the entire community.
  • The investigation revealed that it was a planned mass murder.
  • The history of humanity is stained with instances of mass murder.
Context #2 | Noun

psychology

The deliberate and indiscriminate killing of multiple individuals by a single perpetrator, usually in a public place.

Synonyms

mass killing, rampage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mass murder

Used to describe the intentional and unlawful killing of a large number of people. Usually implies premeditation and is often associated with crimes against humanity or war crimes.

  • The dictator was responsible for the mass murder of thousands of political dissidents.
  • Historians have studied the mass murder of minorities during the conflict.
mass killing

Refers to the act of killing many individuals in a short period of time. It may not necessarily imply premeditation or legal context as strong as 'mass murder'. It could be used in contexts such as natural disasters or accidents.

  • The earthquake caused a mass killing as buildings collapsed.
  • There was a mass killing at the concert due to a sudden fire outbreak.
rampage

Describes a violent and uncontrollable behavior resulting in multiple deaths or destruction. Typically associated with a short duration event and one or several attackers causing chaos.

  • The gunman went on a rampage, leaving several people injured and many properties damaged.
  • Panic spread through the city as a wild animal went on a rampage.

Examples of usage

  • The psychiatrist studied the psychology behind mass murder.
  • The motive behind the mass murder remains unclear.
  • The media coverage of mass murders can influence public perception.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'mass murder'

The term 'mass murder' originated in the mid-16th century, derived from the combination of 'mass' meaning large quantity and 'murder' meaning the unlawful killing of a person. Throughout history, instances of mass murder have been documented in various contexts, ranging from wartime atrocities to acts of terrorism. The study of mass murder has become a significant focus in criminology, psychology, and sociology, aiming to understand the motives and patterns behind such heinous crimes.