# decapitation

/dɪˌkæpɪˈteɪʃən/ (US) · /dɪkˌæpɪtˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/decapitation
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

cutting off a person's or animal's head, usually causing death. You hear it about executions in the past or very violent attacks.

For teachers: removal of the head from the body, especially as a form of execution or fatal injury. Extends metaphorically to the sudden removal of a group's leadership.

## Examples

- The history book describes a decapitation during the revolution.
- The news report confirmed the decapitation strike removed the group's top commanders in one night.
- Historians argue that the public decapitation of the king marked a point of no return, turning reform into revolution.

## Synonyms

behead

## Usage notes

- Often used metaphorically in phrases like 'decapitation strike' to mean sudden removal of leadership.

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