rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryparricideKilling a parent or close relative
noun

parricide

PAIR-ih-side/ˈpærɪsaɪd/

The killing of a parent or close relative.

The novel centers on a parricide that tears a family apart.

A compact two-scene sequence connects an unmistakable mother–daughter childhood relationship to the adult daughter killing her now-elderly mother, without graphic injury or explanatory text.
Etymology
parriLatinrelative
+cideLatinkilling

The probable connection with Latin parus, “relative,” gives the killing element a family relationship: the victim can be a close relative as well as a parent.

More examples

  • The prosecutor describes the killing of his father as parricide.
  • Her essay compares two parricides in ancient myths.
  • Killing a close relative can also be classified as parricide.

Forms

parricide · parricides

parricidal adjective — Involving the killing of a parent or relative.

Similar words

patricide
Specifically means killing one's father, rather than any close relative.
matricide
Specifically means killing one's mother, rather than any close relative.
homicide
Covers the killing of any person, regardless of family relationship.