# holocaust

/ˈhɑɫəˌkɔst/ (US) · /hˈɒləkˌɔːst/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/holocaust
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. the Nazi genocide

noun · CEFR B2

the systematic murder of millions of Jews and other groups by the Nazi government during World War II.

For teachers: The systematic, state-sponsored persecution and murder of approximately six million European Jews and millions of others by the Nazi regime. Usually capitalized as 'the Holocaust'.

- Students visited the museum to learn about the history of the Holocaust.
- The Holocaust remains a central subject of study in modern European history, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked hatred and state-sponsored violence.

### 2. mass destruction

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a very large-scale destruction of life, especially one caused by fire or nuclear war.

For teachers: Extensive destruction or loss of life, especially on a mass scale; often used to describe the potential results of nuclear conflict.

- Many people feared that a nuclear war would lead to a global holocaust.
- Environmentalists warned that the rapid deforestation of the region would result in a biological holocaust for local species.

### 3. burnt offering

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Technical

a religious sacrifice that is completely destroyed by fire.

For teachers: A sacrificial offering that is entirely consumed by flames. Historically used in ancient religious contexts.

- The ancient text describes a holocaust offered to the gods.
- The ritual required a perfect animal for the holocaust, ensuring the entire offering was reduced to ashes upon the altar.

Usage: In this technical sense, the word is often used in biblical or historical studies.

## Examples

- The world feared a nuclear holocaust during the Cold War.
- Historians work to preserve the testimonies of those who survived the Holocaust to ensure such atrocities are never repeated.
- The poet used the imagery of a forest fire as a metaphor for a natural holocaust that clears the way for new growth while mourning the total loss of the old ecosystem.

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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.