massacre /ˈmæs.ə.kə(ɹ)/verb 4noun 3forms 5 verb4 •To kill in considerable numbers where little or no resistance can be made, with indiscriminate violence, without necessity, and contrary to civilized norms. (Often limited to the killing of human beings.)If James should be pleased to massacre them all, as Maximilian had massacred the Theban legion — 1849 •(nonstandard) To kill with great force or brutality.Look how they massacred my boy. — 1972 •(figurative) To win against (an opponent) very decisively. •(figurative) To perform (a work, such as a musical piece or a play) very poorly. noun3 •The killing of a considerable number (usually limited to people) where little or no resistance can be made, with indiscriminate violence, without necessity, and/or contrary to civilized norms.I'll find a day to massacre them all, And raze their faction and their family — 1588 •(figurative) Any overwhelming defeat, as in a game or sport. •(no longer used) Murder.The tyrannous and bloody act is done,— The most arch deed of piteous massacre That ever yet this land was guilty of. — 1593 formsmassacr'd · massacred · massacring · massacres · massacrest
