atrocity

[ uh-tros-i-tee ]

noun

, plural a·troc·i·ties.

1. the quality or state of being atrocious.
2. an atrocious act, thing, or circumstance.

atrocity

/ əˈtrɒsɪtɪ /

noun

1. behaviour or an action that is wicked or ruthless
2. the fact or quality of being atrocious
3. usually plural acts of extreme cruelty, esp against prisoners or civilians in wartime

Word History and Origins

Origin of atrocity¹

1525–35; < Latin atrōcitās, equivalent to atrōci- (stem of atrōx ) fierce + -tās -ty ²

Example Sentences

And that is before Zaun radicals violently attack a memorial service honoring the survivors of Jinx’s atrocity.

From Salon

The report said it found "unprecedented" levels of international law violations, raising concerns about "war crimes and other possible atrocity crimes".

From BBC

Pete Weatherby KC, representing the claimants, said MI5’s behaviour in the years after the bombing had "lacked candour" to bereaved families, the public, and official reviews into the atrocity.

From BBC

"The Israeli government’s policies and practices in northern Gaza risk emptying the area of all Palestinians. We are facing what could amount to atrocity crimes, including potentially extending to crimes against humanity," Mr Türk added.

From BBC

“The Israeli government’s policies and practices in northern Gaza risk emptying the area of all Palestinians. We are facing what could amount to atrocity crimes, including potentially extending to crimes against humanity.”

From BBC

Related Words

• barbarity
• brutality
• crime
• evil
• horror
• inhumanity