manslaughter
MAN-slaw-ter
/ˈmænˌslɔːtər/
The crime of killing a human being without malice aforethought, or otherwise in circumstances not amounting to murder.
Manslaughter is divided into 'voluntary' (heat of passion) and 'involuntary' (negligence). It implies a lack of prior intent to kill.
The story behind the word. Unlike many legal terms with Latin roots, manslaughter is purely Germanic. It literally means the 'slaughter of a man.' Historically, it was used to distinguish killings that happened during a sudden fight from those done by lying in wait.
Word relationships
- homicide: Manslaughter is a specific legal category of homicide.
- murder: Murder requires 'malice aforethought' or premeditation, which manslaughter lacks.
Commonly confused with
- murder: Murder is intentional and planned; manslaughter is often accidental or impulsive.
Collocations
- involuntary manslaughter
- voluntary manslaughter
- vehicular manslaughter
- convicted of manslaughter
Example sentences
- "The defendant was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter after the accidental discharge of the weapon." A news report on a sentencing.
- "Manslaughter is the unlawful killing of a human being without malice." Legal definition regarding the 'heat of passion'. (U.S. Code Title 18, Section 1112)
Memory hook
Man + Slaughter. It's the slaughter of a man, but without the 'malice' that makes it murder. Laughter is missing from manslaughter; it's a serious but unplanned killing.
When not to use
Do not use this if the killer planned the act in advance; that is murder.
Fun facts
- The word 'manslaughter' contains the word 'laughter,' which is a common linguistic irony noted by students.
- Vehicular manslaughter is one of the most common modern charges involving this term.
Related words
Explore more words
homicide, negligence, inattention, recklessness, negligent, arson
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