noun
decapitation
dih-kap-ih-TAY-shuhn
Decapitation (noun) means the act of cutting off a head; beheading. Example: “The film contains a graphic decapitation scene.”
noun
1
The act of cutting off a head; beheading.
"The film contains a graphic decapitation scene."
"If the headsman's axe was sharp and his aim was true, decapitation was a quick and relatively painless form of death."
2
The removal or collapse of an organisation's leadership.
"The scandal led to the decapitation of the entire board."
How to use decapitation
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBeheading, or figuratively, the toppling of an organisation's leaders.
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Word forms
- Plural
- decapitations
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The film contains a graphic _____ scene.
Etymology
From French décapitation, built the same way as "decapitate."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for decapitation
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for decapitation →
Frequently asked questions
What does “decapitation” mean?
The word “decapitation” means the act of cutting off a head; beheading. In plain terms, beheading, or figuratively, the toppling of an organisation's leaders.
How do you pronounce “decapitation”?
“Decapitation” is pronounced dih-kap-ih-TAY-shuhn (/ˈdi.kæp.əˌteɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “decapitation” in a sentence?
Here is “decapitation” used in a sentence: “The film contains a graphic decapitation scene.”
What is another word for “decapitation”?
Words with a similar meaning to “decapitation” include beheading.
What part of speech is “decapitation”?
“Decapitation” is a noun.
Where does the word “decapitation” come from?
The word “decapitation” comes from French. From French décapitation, built the same way as "decapitate.".
How many meanings does “decapitation” have?
“Decapitation” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of cutting off a head; beheading.
