euthanasia
yoo-thuh-NAY-zhuh
/ˌjuːθəˈneɪʒə/
The painless killing of a patient suffering from an incurable and painful disease or in an irreversible coma.
In veterinary medicine, it is often viewed as a compassionate final act to end suffering.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'eu' meaning 'well' or 'good' and 'thanatos' meaning 'death.' It literally means 'a good death,' implying a passing that is peaceful and free from pain.
Word relationships
- mercy killing: A more emotional, less clinical term.
Word family
- euthanize (verb): To subject to euthanasia.
Collocations
- perform euthanasia
- request euthanasia
- humane euthanasia
Idioms & expressions
- put to sleep
Example sentences
- "After the cancer spread to his lungs, the family chose euthanasia to end the dog's suffering." A difficult decision.
- "Veterinarians are trained to perform euthanasia with the utmost dignity and care." Professional ethics.
Memory hook
Think of 'EU' (good) and 'THAN' (than) a painful life. A good death.
When not to use
Avoid using 'kill' or 'put down' in sensitive clinical settings; 'euthanasia' is the respectful medical term.
Fun facts
- The term was first used in a medical context by Francis Bacon in the 17th century.
Explore more words
palliative, capital punishment, homicide, sedation, lethal, anesthesia
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