victim
UK: ˈvɪktɪm | US: ˈvɪktɪm
n. a person harmed, injured, or killed as a result of a crime, accident, or other event
n. a person who is tricked or duped
n. (archaic) a living creature sacrificed in a religious ritual
The word "victim" traces back to Latin victima, originally referring to animals sacrificed in religious rites. The root vincere (to conquer) implies a passive subject—one "conquered" by fate, violence, or deception. Over time, it broadened to include any sufferer of harm, retaining its core idea of powerlessness.
The charity provides support for victims of domestic violence.
He fell victim to an online scam and lost his savings.
In ancient Rome, a lamb was often chosen as the ritual victim.
She refused to see herself as a victim despite the injustice.
The documentary highlighted the stories of earthquake victims.