English Reference
verb · adjective

killed

v. · adj.
US /ˈkɪɫd/ UK /kˈɪld/ killed

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    v.caused the death of a person, animal, or plant.

    v.caused the death of a living organism. Transitive; requires a direct object.

    Simple

    The cold weather killed all the flowers in the garden last night.

    In context

    The sudden frost killed the delicate seedlings before they had a chance to establish a robust root system.

  2. 02 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

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

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical Medicine

    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.

    Simple

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

    In context

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

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun it modifies.

    inactivateddead
  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    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.

    Simple

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

    In context

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

    deoxidized

Usage killed people · killed at least · killed two

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Very common
Updated