MURDERESS Meaning and
Definition
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A murderess is a noun used to describe a female individual who commits the act of murder, intentionally causing the death of another person unlawfully and with premeditation or malice. The term "murderess" specifically refers to the gender of the perpetrator, highlighting that the individual in question is a woman.
The primary characteristic of a murderess is her willingness to take another person's life, consciously deciding to end another person's existence through violent means. This distinguishes a murderess from someone who accidentally causes the death of another person or acts in self-defense. The act of murder generally involves the deliberate intent to kill, often motivated by anger, revenge, jealousy, or other malicious emotions.
As a female counterpart to the term "murderer," the noun "murderess" serves to emphasize the gender of the perpetrator, acknowledging that women can also commit such heinous acts. It helps define and differentiate the identity of a female criminal who has crossed the bounds of societal norms and laws. Like the term "murderer," "murderess" carries negative connotations, associated with immorality and a disregard for human life.
While the word "murderess" is increasingly considered archaic or old-fashioned in contemporary usage, it remains an accepted term for referring to women who commit acts of murder in various legal and literary contexts, shedding light on the role and traits of female perpetrators within the criminal justice system and the broader societal outlook on violent crime.
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A woman who kills a human being unlawfully.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MURDERESS
Etymology of MURDERESS
The word murderess is formed by adding the suffix -ess to the noun murder. The suffix -ess is derived from Old English -es, which denoted female gender. It has the same origin as the modern English -ess used to indicate female occupation or status, such as actress or goddess. The noun murder comes from Middle English murder and Old English morðor, which ultimately traces back to the Proto-Germanic word *murþran.
Similar spelling words for MURDERESS
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