Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

familicide

Noun
/ˌfæmɪlɪˈsaɪd/
Definition
The act of killing multiple members of one’s own family.
Examples
  • The news reported a familicide in the small town, shocking the community.
  • Many experts seek to understand the psychological factors that can lead to familicide.
  • The evidence pointed towards a tragic case of familicide after the investigation unfolded.
Meaning
Familicide refers to the intentional murder of several family members, often carried out by a single individual. This tragic and severe act typically arises from extreme emotional distress, mental health issues, or complex family dynamics.
Synonyms
  • Family murder
  • Mass murder (within the family)
  • Filicide (killing one’s children)