Meaning & Definition of word "Kill"

Kill

/kɪl/

noun:

  • 1. the act of killing or the state of being killed.
    • Example: The novel features a murder mystery where the kill is always unexpected.
  • 2. an instance of killing, especially in a violent context.
    • Example: The news reported several kills during the conflict.

verb:

  • 1. to cause the death of a living being.
    • Example: The hunter aimed to kill the deer for food.
  • 2. to put an end to; terminate.
    • Example: The manager decided to kill the project due to budget cuts.
  • 3. to prevent from continuing or having an effect.
    • Example: The rainstorm killed our plans for a picnic.
  • 4. to cause someone to feel extreme fatigue or boredom.
    • Example: The long lecture nearly killed me.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English cyllan; akin to Old Norse kella to strike

Common Phrases and Expressions

kill two birds with one stone:

To accomplish two tasks with a single action.

kill time:

To spend time doing something unimportant or unproductive.

kill the fatted calf:

To celebrate someone's return or a special event.

Related Words

killer:

A person or thing that kills.

killing:

The act of causing death.

kiln:

An oven or furnace for burning, baking, or drying.

Slang Meanings of kill

Meaning: To perform exceptionally well

Example Sentence: He killed it on stage last night!

Meaning: To make someone laugh immensely

Example Sentence: That joke killed me!