Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

filicide

Noun
/ˈfɪlɪˌsaɪd/
Definition
The act of a parent killing their own child.
Examples
  • A mother was charged with filicide after the tragic incident.
  • Filicide can stem from various psychological issues or distress.
  • The legal implications of filicide vary greatly from case to case.
Meaning
Filicide refers specifically to the act committed by a parent towards their child, typically considered in the context of severe mental illness or extreme circumstances.
Synonyms
  • Child homicide
  • Matricide (when the mother is the perpetrator)
  • Paternal filicide (when the father is the perpetrator)