How Do You Spell INTERNECINE?

Pronunciation: [ˌɪntənˈɛsiːn] (IPA)

The word "internecine" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ˌɪn.təˈniː.saɪn/. It means a conflict or struggle within a group, often resulting in mutual destruction. The root of the word, "nec," comes from the Latin word for death, which is why the pronunciation includes the sound "nee." The "in-" prefix means "inside," and the suffix "-ine" represents the adjective form. Proper pronunciation of "internecine" requires emphasis on the second syllable, with a long "e" sound and a harder stress on the "nec" syllable.

INTERNECINE Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "internecine" derives from the Latin words "inter" meaning "between" or "among" and "necare" meaning "to kill" or "to slay." It is used as an adjective to describe a particular type of conflict or struggle that involves intense and destructive fighting or rivalry within a group or organization.

    Internecine often refers to the dire consequences of conflicts that occur within a group, where the intensity of violence or hostility is significant enough to lead to potentially devastating outcomes. It signifies the severe and destructive nature of confrontations, which can include physical, emotional, or ideological harm. Internecine conflicts are often driven by deep-rooted divisions, bitter rivalries, or irreconcilable differences among members of the same group, such as a political party, organization, or community.

    These conflicts tend to be highly damaging, as they can result in the weakening or disintegration of the involved group. Considering the prefix "inter" in the term, internecine inherently implies that the conflict is inwardly directed rather than against an external entity. Additionally, internecine struggles are commonly marked by a lack of common purpose, self-destructive tendencies, and a disregard for the greater good of the group.

    Therefore, when describing a situation as internecine, it suggests a state of internal turmoil, division, and destructive conflict that can potentially lead to considerable harm and hinder the progress or harmony of a group or organization.

  2. Seeking mutual destruction; deadly; murderous.

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

Common Misspellings for INTERNECINE

Etymology of INTERNECINE

The word "internecine" is derived from the Latin word "internecinus", which is formed by combining the prefix "inter" meaning "between" or "among" and the noun "necare" meaning "to kill". Thus, "internecinus" translates to "mutually engaged in killing". The word was later adopted into English in the early 17th century with the same meaning, referring to a situation characterized by internal conflict or mutual destruction.

Similar spelling words for INTERNECINE

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