B1nounformal3K

Homicide

UK //ˈhɒməsaɪd//US //ˈhɑːməsaɪd//

Definition

The deliberate and unlawful killing of one person by another.

In simple words: The act of killing someone.

Examples

The police are investigating the recent homicide in the area.
Homicide rates have increased in the city over the past year.
The suspect was charged with homicide after the fatal incident.
The legal definition of homicide varies by jurisdiction.
In some cases, homicide can be classified as justifiable.

Usage notes

Used in legal contexts to refer to the killing of one person by another. Not commonly used in everyday conversation.

Grammar pattern

homicide + (of a person)

Memory hint

Think 'homo' (human) + 'cide' (to kill), so it's about killing a person.

Collocations

first-degree homicide
homicide investigation
attempted homicide
homicide rate

Synonyms

murder
manslaughter
killing
slaying
assassination

Antonyms

life
birth

Common mistakes

Confusing 'homicide' with 'murder'; homicide is a broader term.
Using 'homicide' in casual conversations; it's more formal.
Incorrectly using 'homicide' as a verb; it's a noun.