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REFERENCE

slaughtered

v. · adj.
US //ˈsɫɔtɝd// UK //slˈɔːtəd// slaugh·tered
  1. 1 killed for food or in war (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    killed animals for meat or killed many people in a violent way.

    killed livestock for food production or killed a large number of people in a brutal or indiscriminate manner.

    Example

    The cattle were slaughtered and the meat was sent to local markets.

    Example

    Historians estimate that thousands of civilians were slaughtered during the final weeks of the siege, leading to international condemnation.

    Usage

    Often used in the passive voice when referring to food production.
  2. 2 defeated heavily (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal Sport

    defeated a person or a team by a very large score.

    defeated an opponent decisively or by a significant margin in a competition.

    Example

    Our team played badly and got slaughtered six-zero in the final.

    Example

    The incumbent candidate was slaughtered in the polls, losing even the districts that had traditionally been his strongest supporters.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a common hyperbolic use in sports and politics to describe a one-sided loss.
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  1. 3 very drunk (adj.)
    C1 Advanced British English Slang

    extremely drunk from drinking too much alcohol.

    highly intoxicated by alcohol. Predicative use only.

    Example

    He looked completely slaughtered after the wedding reception and had to take a taxi home.

    Example

    By the time the clock struck midnight, half the guests were already slaughtered and unable to stand properly.

    Usage

    Usually follows a linking verb like 'be' or 'get'.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a very strong slang term used in the UK; it is inappropriate for professional or formal settings.

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