Search Dictionary
Definition of euthanize

euthanize

/ˈjuːθənaɪz/
Past Simple:euthanized
•
Past Participle:euthanized
•
Present Participle:euthanizing
JUMP TO:

euthanize Lexical Profile

euthanize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To put an animal or a person to death humanely and painlessly, especially in order to relieve incurable suffering.

Example

"The veterinarian advised the family that the most compassionate choice was to euthanize their terminally ill dog."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for euthanize
Antonyms
View all antonyms for euthanize

• Nearby Words

euterpe
euthanasia
euthanatize
euthanize
eva
evacuate
evacuation

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century as a back-formation from "euthanasia," which comes from the Ancient Greek "euthanasia" (an easy or painless death), combining "eu-" (well, good) and "thanatos" (death).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Euthanize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/euthanize
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.