# slaying

/ˈsɫeɪɪŋ/ (US) · /slˈeɪɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/slaying
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the act of killing someone or something in a violent way. It is often used in news stories about crimes or in old stories about heroes killing monsters.

For teachers: the act of killing, especially in a violent or intentional manner. Often carries a literary or journalistic tone when describing homicides or the killing of mythical creatures.

## Examples

- The knight was famous for his slaying of the dragon.
- Local news outlets reported on the brutal slaying that occurred in the downtown district late last night.
- The epic poem concludes with the hero's dramatic slaying of his rival, a scene that scholars interpret as the symbolic triumph of order over primordial chaos.

## Usage notes

- Often appears in the construction 'the slaying of' followed by the victim.

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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.