atrocity
UK: əˈtrɒsəti | US: əˈtrɑːsəti
n. an extremely wicked or cruel act, typically involving physical violence or injury
n. a horrifying or appalling quality
atrocity = atro<cruel, harsh> + ity<noun suffix>
- atro (from Latin atrox, meaning "cruel, harsh, frightful")
- ity (noun-forming suffix indicating state or quality, from Latin -itas)
Etymology Origin:
The word "atrocity" traces back to the Latin atrox, which originally described something "dark, fierce, or cruel." Over time, atrox evolved to emphasize extreme brutality, and the suffix -ity was added in Middle English to form a noun denoting the quality or state of such acts. The term retains its core association with horrifying violence or moral depravity.
The dictator was condemned for his atrocities against civilians.
The documentary exposed the atrocities committed during the war.
Such an atrocity should never be repeated in human history.
The survivors recounted the atrocity with trembling voices.
International laws aim to prevent crimes against humanity and other atrocities.