Murdering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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murdering

[หˆmษœrdษ™rษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

crime act

Murdering refers to the unlawful premeditated killing of one human being by another. It is considered one of the most severe crimes across all societies and is punishable by law. The act typically involves intent and malice aforethought, distinguishing it from other forms of homicide that may occur in self-defense or accidents. In many jurisdictions, the classification of murder can vary, often including first-degree, second-degree, and manslaughter categories. Definitions may also encompass different motives behind the act, such as financial gain, revenge, or passion.

Synonyms

homicide, killing, manslaughter, slaying.

Examples of usage

  • He was charged with murdering his business partner.
  • The film depicted the brutal act of murdering an innocent.
  • Investigators are still trying to solve the case of the unsolved murdering from last year.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term originates from the Old English word 'morthor,' which meant the act of killing someone.
  • In medieval times, laws about murder were very strict, with severe punishments, often including death for the killer.

Criminal Justice

  • Murder can be classified into different degrees, such as first-degree, which involves premeditation, and second-degree, which is more impulsive.
  • Many countries have debates around the legality of the death penalty for those convicted of murder.

Cultural Depictions

  • Murder is a central theme in many literary works, from Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' to contemporary thrillers, often exploring morality and justice.
  • Film and television often sensationalize murder, leading to discussions about how media influences public perception of crime.

Psychology

  • Studies show that factors leading to violence, including murder, can include mental health issues, social environment, and personal experiences.
  • The psychology behind why people commit murder is complex, often involving a mix of emotions, societal influences, and warning signs.

Statistics

  • According to crime reports, the rates of murder vary significantly between regions, often influenced by factors like socioeconomic status and community resources.
  • In major cities, initiatives to reduce murder rates focus on community engagement and improved policing strategies.

Origin of 'murdering'

The term 'murder' originates from the Old English word 'morth', which is related to the Proto-Germanic term '*murรพrฤ…', meaning 'to kill.' This word traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root '*mrฬฅtรณs', which means 'to die.' The concept of murder has existed throughout human history, recognized in various legal codes, including the Code of Hammurabi. Over centuries, societies have established laws and definitions around the term, evolving it to encompass various forms of unlawful killing. Commonly, murder is categorized by the level of intent behind the act, leading to different degrees of culpability in legal contexts. The portrayal of murder has also been a significant theme in literature and media, often examining the psychological and moral implications of taking a life.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,593, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.