Mutilated: meaning, definitions and examples

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mutilated

 

[ˈmjuːtɪleɪtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

physical damage

Mutilated refers to something that has been severely injured or damaged, often in a way that is grotesque or disfiguring. It usually implies a loss of essential parts that can lead to the inability to function normally. This term can apply to both living beings and inanimate objects. In a broader sense, it can also refer to alterations that render something unusable or unrecognizable.

Synonyms

damaged, deformed, disfigured, maimed.

Examples of usage

  • The mutilated body was discovered in the woods.
  • The artwork was mutilated by vandals.
  • He did not want to mutilate the evidence during the investigation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'mutilare', meaning 'to cut off', emphasizing the idea of destruction or loss.
  • The Latin root stems from 'mutilus', meaning 'maimed' or 'defective', indicating something broken in form or function.

Cultural Significance

  • Throughout history, different cultures have practiced mutilation for reasons ranging from warfare to punishment, often leaving deep psychological scars.
  • Mutilation is referenced in various forms of art and literature, symbolizing loss, trauma, and the consequences of violence.

Psychological Impact

  • Witnessing or experiencing mutilation can lead to significant psychological distress, such as PTSD or anxiety disorders.
  • Studies suggest that individuals who have experienced such trauma may struggle with body image and self-perception.

Media Representation

  • Horror films often depict mutilation to elicit fear, showcasing the worst aspects of human violence.
  • In contemporary literature and art, the topic of mutilation is explored to critique societal norms and express trauma.

Legal and Ethical Dimensions

  • Mutilation is often regarded as a violation of human rights, with legal frameworks established to protect individuals from such acts.
  • Debates arise in medical ethics around procedures that may be seen as mutilative, balancing necessity against bodily integrity.

Translations

Translations of the word "mutilated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mutilado

🇮🇳 विकृत

🇩🇪 verstümmelt

🇮🇩 terpotong

🇺🇦 калічений

🇵🇱 okaleczony

🇯🇵 切断された

🇫🇷 mutilé

🇪🇸 mutilado

🇹🇷 yaralı

🇰🇷 절단된

🇸🇦 مشوه

🇨🇿 zmrzačený

🇸🇰 zmrzačený

🇨🇳 残缺的

🇸🇮 oklesten

🇮🇸 skemmdur

🇰🇿 мutilated

🇬🇪 მუტილირებული

🇦🇿 mutilasiya olunmuş

🇲🇽 mutilado

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,998, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.