# bloodshed

/ˈbɫədˌʃɛd/ (US) · /blˈʌdʃɛd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bloodshed
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the killing or wounding of people, especially during a war or a violent fight.

For teachers: the shedding of blood; the killing or injuring of people, typically on a large scale during conflict.

## Examples

- The two leaders signed a peace treaty to end the bloodshed.
- After years of civil war, the citizens were desperate for any political solution that would stop the daily bloodshed.
- Historians often debate whether the revolution could have achieved its democratic aims without the extreme bloodshed that eventually alienated its international allies.

## Usage notes

- Typically used in political or historical contexts to describe the human cost of violence.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.