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Definition of euthanasia
euthanasia
/ˌjuːθəˈneɪʒə/
eu · tha · na · sia
Adjective:euthanasic
euthanasia Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
11
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
4
euthanasia Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
The practice of intentionally ending a human or animal life in order to relieve intractable pain and suffering, especially in cases of terminal illness or severe injury.
Example
"The parliamentary committee held several public hearings to debate the legal and ethical implications of voluntary euthanasia."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for euthanasiaWord Nuance & Usage
In medical ethics and law, 'euthanasia' (where a physician or third party directly administers the lethal agent) is often distinguished from 'assisted suicide' or 'medical aid in dying' (where the patient self-administers the prescribed medication).
• Rhymes for euthanasia
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the early 17th century from Ancient Greek 'euthanasia' ('an easy, painless death'), formed from 'eu-' ('good' or 'well') and 'thanatos' ('death').
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Euthanasia. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/euthanasia