Meaning & Definition of word "Lethal"

Lethal

/ˈliːθəl/

adjective:

  • 1. sufficient to cause death.
    • Example: The venom from the snake is lethal, capable of killing a person within hours.
  • 2. intended to cause death.
    • Example: The soldiers were given lethal force instructions during the conflict.
  • 3. extremely harmful or destructive.
    • Example: The disease has a lethal effect on the population, reducing life expectancy dramatically.

Etymology

From Latin 'letalis', from 'letum' meaning 'death'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

lethal weapon:

A weapon capable of causing death.

lethal injection:

A method of executing a person by injecting them with a fatal dose of drugs.

lethal dose:

The amount of a substance required to cause death.

Related Words

mortality:

The state of being subject to death.

death:

The end of the life of a living organism.

fatality:

An occurrence of death.

Slang Meanings of lethal

Meaning: Extremely effective or successful.

Example Sentence: That new track is just lethal on the dance floor!

Meaning: Impressive or awesome.

Example Sentence: Her performance was lethal; she nailed every move.