Atrocity

Definition

Atrocity refers to an extremely wicked, cruel, or brutal act, often involving violence and significant harm. The term is commonly associated with severe human rights violations, wartime crimes, and acts that cause suffering or devastation.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American and British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈtrɒsɪti/
• Respelling: uh-TROS-i-tee

Etymology

The word "atrocity" originates from the Latin "atrocitas," meaning "fierceness" or "cruelty," derived from "atrox," meaning "fierce" or "cruel." This term evolved into Middle French as "atrocité" before entering the English language in the late 16th century, where it has retained its association with extreme cruelty and brutality.

Derivatives

• Atrocious (adjective)
• Atrociously (adverb)
• Atrociousness (noun)
• Atrocity-laden (adjective)
• Atrocity-ridden (adjective)

Synonyms

• Horror
• Barbarity
• Abomination

Antonyms

• Kindness
• Compassion
• Mercy

Usage

The noun "atrocity" is used to describe actions that are shockingly cruel or inhumane, especially in contexts of war, genocide, or gross human rights abuses. For instance, "The atrocities committed during the conflict shocked the international community." It may also be used in less formal contexts to describe actions considered shockingly bad or offensive, though this usage is less common.

Related Terms

• Genocide: The deliberate killing of a large group of people, especially of a particular ethnic group or nation.
• War crime: Violations of the laws or customs of war, often involving cruelty to non-combatants.
• Human rights: Fundamental rights and freedoms that every person is entitled to.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An act of extreme cruelty or violence: Refers to a shockingly brutal action often causing severe harm, suffering, or devastation.
  • Example: "The massacre was considered an atrocity by international observers."
• A shockingly bad or offensive act: In a less common sense, it may refer to any action deemed morally reprehensible or offensive.
  • Example: "The destruction of historical monuments was seen as a cultural atrocity."