# slayer

/ˈsɫeɪɝ/ (US) · /slˈeɪɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/slayer
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. a killer of monsters or enemies

noun · CEFR C1 · Literary

a person who kills a dangerous person, animal, or monster.

For teachers: one who slays; a killer, specifically one who destroys a powerful or mythical adversary.

- In the old story, the brave knight was known as a dragon slayer.
- The protagonist is portrayed not merely as a soldier, but as a legendary slayer of demons who protects the kingdom from supernatural threats.

Usage: Often used in compound nouns like 'dragon-slayer' or 'giant-slayer'.

Teaching tip: This word is very dramatic and rare in everyday conversation; it is mostly found in fantasy novels, video games, or historical dramas.

## Examples

- The brave knight was known as a dragon slayer.
- In many ancient myths, the hero must prove their worth by becoming a slayer of beasts.
- The protagonist's reputation as a giant slayer preceded him, ensuring that even the boldest warriors in the kingdom treated him with a mixture of awe and suspicion.

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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.