Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

neonaticide

Noun
/ˌniːoʊneɪtəˈsaɪd/
Definition
The act of killing an infant within the first 28 days after birth.
Examples
  • In some tragic cases, neonaticide occurs due to a mother’s inability to cope with postpartum challenges.
  • The rise of awareness regarding mental health is vital in preventing tragedies like neonaticide.
  • Legal systems often treat neonaticide differently from other forms of homicide due to the circumstances involved.
Meaning
Neonaticide refers specifically to the act involving very young babies, emphasizing the vulnerability of newborns.
Synonyms
  • Infanticide
  • Baby killing
  • Newborn murder