adjective
fatal
FAY-tuhl/ˈfeɪtl/
Bringing about death.
The trap proves fatal to the mouse caught beneath its spring.
Etymology
Fatal originally described something ordained by fate. Since fate could carry the darker meaning of ruin or ill fortune, the adjective also meant deadly or destructive—the meanings behind fatal injuries and fatal mistakes.
In context
the jury returned a verdict of guilty of manslaughter, rejecting murder, but confirming that Williams' actions caused the fatal outcome
More examples
- The crash was fatal to both drivers.
- Even a small dose of this poison can be fatal.
- Prompt treatment can prevent a potentially fatal infection.
Forms
fatally adverb — In a way that causes death.
Similar words
- deadly
- Often emphasizes danger to life rather than an actual death.
- lethal
- Often emphasizes the killing power of a substance or weapon.