Meaning & Definition of word "Genocide"
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Genocide
/ˈdʒɛnəˌsaɪd/
noun:
- 1. The deliberate and systematic extermination of a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group.
- Example: The genocide committed during World War II is one of the most horrific events in human history.
- 2. The acts or efforts to destroy a group of people based on their identity, often involving mass killings.
- Example: The international community condemned the genocide occurring in the region.
- 3. The intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group.
- Example: Evidence of genocide was gathered during the tribunal for war crimes.
- 4. A systematic campaign against a people or culture that may not involve outright killing but aims to eradicate their identity.
- Example: Cultural genocide can occur even without physical violence, through the suppression of language and traditions.
Etymology
The word 'genocide' was coined in 1944 by Polish-Jewish lawyer Raphael Lemkin, from 'genos' (Greek for 'family, tribe, or race') and 'cide' (Latin for 'killing').
Common Phrases and Expressions
ethnic cleansing:
The forced removal of an ethnic group from a territory through violence or intimidation.
crimes against humanity:
A category of international law that refers to inhumane acts involving a large-scale attack against a civilian population.
war crimes:
Serious violations of the laws applicable in armed conflict leading to individual criminal responsibility.
Related Words
holocaust:
The systematic extermination of six million Jews by the Nazi regime.
ethnic cleansing:
The forced deportation and killings of members of an ethnic group from a particular area.
massacre:
The indiscriminate and brutal slaughter of a large number of people.