Definition of Kill
Quick Meaning of Kill
To cause death; to end someone or something's life.
Detailed Definition of Kill
To cause someone or something to die; to end the life of a living creature.
How to Pronounce Kill
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One syllable with short /ɪ/ vowel as in 'sit'. Double 'l' is silent—don't pronounce both.
Watch out: None common; sometimes non-natives extend the vowel sound /kiːl/.
Origin and Etymology of Kill
From Old English 'cwellan', meaning to strike, torment, or kill.
How to Use Kill in a Sentence
Each example shows “kill” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
-
“The farmer had to kill the chicken for dinner.”
-
“A powerful storm can kill many fish in the river.”
-
“Without proper treatment, the disease would kill the patient.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Kill
Common Synonyms for Kill
Smart Synonyms for Kill — When to Use Each
- murder
- when referring to unlawful killing of humans
- execute
- for legal punishment by death
- slaughter
- for mass killing or animals for food
Antonyms of Kill
Common Collocations with Kill
These phrases pair with “kill” in everyday English:
- kill an animal
- kill time
- kill a joke
- kill the engine
- kill the lights
Common Mistakes When Using Kill
Even fluent speakers slip up with “kill”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He kill the mosquito yesterday.
- ✓ Correct: He killed the mosquito yesterday.
- Why: Past time 'yesterday' requires past tense 'killed', not base form 'kill'.
- ✗ Wrong: I will to kill the engine.
- ✓ Correct: I will kill the engine.
- Why: Modal 'will' takes bare infinitive 'kill', not 'to kill'.
Other Forms of Kill
Frequently Asked Questions About Kill
What is the meaning of "Kill"?
To cause death; to end someone or something's life.
How do you pronounce "Kill"?
The IPA is /kɪl/. One syllable with short /ɪ/ vowel as in 'sit'. Double 'l' is silent—don't pronounce both.
What part of speech is "Kill"?
"Kill" is a verb at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Kill"?
Common synonyms include murder, slay, execute.
How do you use "Kill" in a sentence?
For example: "The farmer had to kill the chicken for dinner."