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.