How Do You Spell DECAPITATION?

Pronunciation: [dɪkˌapɪtˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA)

The word "decapitation" is spelled as " dih-kap-i-tey-shuhn". Its phonetic transcription is /dɪˌkæpɪˈteɪʃən/. The letter combination "ti" in this word is pronounced as "sh" sound, which can be confusing for some people who are not familiar with its phonetics. It means to cut off someone's head, often as a form of punishment. This word is commonly used in discussions about historical or violent events and it's important to spell it correctly for clarity and accuracy.

DECAPITATION Meaning and Definition

1. Decapitation refers to the act of severing or cutting off a person's head from their body. It is a brutal form of execution, punishment, or killing method that has been historically practiced in various civilizations throughout the world. The term originated from the Latin words "de-" (meaning 'off') and "caput" (meaning 'head').

   Decapitation is often associated with the death penalty, capital punishment, or acts of violence committed during warfare. It has been employed as a means to impose public justice, intimidate enemies, or symbolize the triumph of one group over another.

   Traditionally, decapitation was carried out using a variety of methods, including swords, axes, guillotines, or even improvised tools. The process aims to swiftly separate the head from the body, usually leading to immediate death due to severance of the critical structures such as major blood vessels or the spinal cord. The sight of a decapitated head is considered gruesome and graphic, evoking strong emotional and psychological responses.

   Beyond its literal meaning, "decapitation" has metaphorical applications. In certain contexts, it can denote a severe blow or defeat suffered by a group or individual. For instance, in politics or military strategies, the concept of "decapitating the leadership" refers to eliminating key figures or hierarchy in order to weaken the opposition's effectiveness or control.

   While decapitation has been historically practiced, it is universally condemned today as a violation of human rights and dignity. The majority of countries have abolished its use, considering it a barbaric and inhumane act.

2. The removal of a head, specifically of the fetal head in dystocia.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. The act of beheading.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for DECAPITATION

• decapatation
• decapitaion
• delapidation
• dicapitation
• decapittion
• decapitatin
• decaptiation
• decapittaion
• decepitation
• deratisation
• decripitation
• decapitaition
• decapitaaion
• decrepitasion

Etymology of DECAPITATION

The word decapitation has its roots in Latin and French. It comes from the Latin word decapitare, which is a compound of de (meaning from or off) and caput (meaning head). In French, decapitation evolved from the Latin term, and it is a combination of de and capitation (which is derived from caput). Therefore, decapitation literally means to remove the head or to cut off the head.

Similar spelling words for DECAPITATION

• decapitated,
• decapitate.

Plural form of DECAPITATION is DECAPITATIONS