Strangler Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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strangler

[หˆstrรฆล‹ษกlษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

crime terminology

A strangler is someone who kills by strangulation. This method of killing involves compressing the throat, which can lead to unconsciousness or death. The term is often used in criminal contexts to describe specific offenders.

Synonyms

assassin, killer, murderer.

Examples of usage

  • The police are searching for a notorious strangler in the city.
  • Stranglers often leave victims in secluded areas.
  • The movie depicted the life of a serial strangler.
  • Detectives are investigating a case involving a strangler.
Context #2 | Noun

botany

In botanical terms, a strangler refers to a type of plant that grows around another plant, often leading to the host's growth suppression or death. These plants typically use their roots to absorb nutrients and sunlight, effectively strangling their host.

Synonyms

invasive species, parasitic plant.

Examples of usage

  • The strangler fig can overtake large trees in the rainforest.
  • Strangler plants play a unique role in their ecosystems.
  • Botanists study the effects of stranglers on forest health.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Crime and Law

  • Strangulation is a method often described in criminal cases, which can make forensic investigations complex.
  • Statistics show that strangulation is a common method in domestic violence cases, emphasizing the need for awareness and prevention.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and books, the term often signifies a dramatic and sinister character, which reflects societal fears of unseen threats.
  • Fictional characters like 'The Strangler' have emerged in horror genres, leaving a lasting impact on how we view villains.

Psychology

  • Studies indicate that individuals who commit violent acts may have underlying psychological issues that need to be addressed.
  • The act of strangulation can psychologically affect both the victim and perpetrator, leading to complex emotional responses.

Literature

  • Stranglers are often used as archetypes in literature to explore themes of violence and morality, providing a lens into human behavior.
  • Historical texts often depict strangulation as a method of execution, emphasizing its long-standing existence in societal narratives.

Origin of 'strangler'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'strangler' comes from the Old French 'estrangler', meaning to choke or throttle.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the Latin 'stringere', which means to bind or draw tight.

The word 'strangler' comes from the Middle English term 'stranglen', which means 'to choke' or 'to constrict'. The root of the word can be traced back to the Old French 'estrangler', which further derives from the Latin 'stringere' meaning 'to draw tight' or 'to bind'. This etymology reflects the violent and constrictive nature of the actions associated with strangling. Historically, the term has been used in both criminal and botanical contexts, emphasizing the act of restraining or overpowering in various environments. The dual usage of 'strangler' illustrates the term's adaptability in language, while the underlying connotation of violence remains consistent. As society evolved, so did the contexts in which this term is used, from criminal investigations of notorious murderers to the study of ecology and plant behavior.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,256, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.