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Definition of matricide

matricide

/ˈmæt.ɹə.saɪd/
mat · ri · cide
Plural:matricides
•
Adjective:matricidal
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matricide Lexical Profile

matricide Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The act of killing one's own mother.

Example

"In Ancient Greek tragedy, the story of Orestes explores the moral and legal consequences of matricide."

2

A person who kills their own mother.

Example

"Roman law prescribed exceptionally severe punishments for anyone convicted as a matricide."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for matricide

Word Nuance & Usage

Like 'patricide' and 'fratricide', 'matricide' can refer either to the act of killing one's mother (usually uncountable) or to the person who commits the act (countable).

• Rhymes for matricide

• Nearby Words

matriarchy
matric
matricaria
matricide
matriculate
matriculation
matrimonial

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 16th century from Latin 'matricidium' (the act) and 'matricida' (the perpetrator), formed from 'mater' ('mother') and '-cidium' or '-cida' (from 'caedere', 'to cut down or kill').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Matricide. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/matricide
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