honor killing

[ on-er kil-ing ]

noun

1. the killing of a relative, especially a female relative, as retribution for the perceived dishonoring of the family, as dictated or sanctioned by some cultures and religions.

Word History and Origins

Origin of honor killing¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

When I came up with the idea, I was really pushing back against all the Muslim stereotypes foisted upon me, like “Can you write a thing about honor killings?”

From Los Angeles Times

DIWANIYAH, Iraq — Dozens of Iraqi protesters gathered Sunday to decry the so-called “honor killing” of a 22-year-old YouTube star who was allegedly strangled by her father, adding fuel to calls for legal reforms protecting women.

From Washington Times

In a Shakespearean twist, this honor killing took place in the same post office where Dukes had mailed his offending letter to Captain Nutt.

From Washington Post

As the group decides to stage a production about “honor killings” — filicides of lovers who dare cross caste and religious lines — creative differences become political battles, and romantic tiffs become ideological impasses.

From New York Times

He said he hoped she met the same fate as Nada al-Qahtani, a Saudi woman who was fatally shot by her brother in a so-called “honor killing” in the kingdom in 2020.

From Seattle Times