killed

B1 · Intermediate Informal

v. stopped a process, a machine, or a light.

v. terminated a process, electrical circuit, or mechanical operation. Often used in technical or informal contexts.

“He killed the engine and sat in the quiet car for a moment.”

“The technician killed the power to the entire wing to prevent the electrical fire from spreading through the ventilation shafts.”

C1 · Advanced Medicine Technical

adj. describes a virus or bacteria that has been made safe for use in a vaccine.

adj. referring to a pathogen that has been rendered non-infectious, typically for use in immunisations.

“The doctor explained that the vaccine uses a killed virus to protect you.”

“The research team opted for a killed vaccine approach to ensure the highest safety profile for immunocompromised patients during the trial.”

C2 · Proficiency Science Technical

adj. describes metal that has had gas removed from it during the making process.

adj. referring to steel that has been completely deoxidized by the addition of an agent such as aluminium or silicon before casting.

“The construction project required high-quality killed steel for the main beams.”

“Killed steel is preferred for critical structural components because it lacks the porosity often found in rimmed or semi-killed alternatives.”