Meaning & Definition of word "Manslaughter"

Manslaughter

/ˈmænˌslɔːtər/

1. The unlawful killing of a human being without malice aforethought, which is considered less serious than murder.
- Example: He was charged with manslaughter after the fatal car accident.
2. A legal term for a type of homicide that is less severe than murder, often due to provocation or a lack of intent to kill.
- Example: The jury found her guilty of manslaughter rather than murder, recognizing the heat of the moment.
3. The act of causing the death of another person without intent to do so.
- Example: In a case of tragic manslaughter, a scuffle led to one person falling and fatally injuring themselves.
4. A category of homicide that is considered a mitigating circumstance due to the circumstances surrounding the act.
- Example: The defendant’s history of mental illness played a crucial role in the manslaughter verdict.

Middle English, from 'man' + 'slaughter'.

voluntary manslaughter:

A killing that occurs in the heat of passion as a result of provocation.

involuntary manslaughter:

An unintentional killing resulting from negligent conduct.

manslaughter by negligence:

Killing a person through careless actions that result in death.

homicide:

The deliberate and unlawful killing of one person by another.

murder:

The unlawful premeditated killing of one human being by another.

negligence:

Failure to take proper care in doing something, which can lead to unintended harm.

Meaning: Unintentional killing

Example Sentence: He got a manslaughter charge for his reckless driving.

Meaning: Accidental death

Example Sentence: That was just a manslaughter situation, not murder.