Synonyms for

Cain

Verb / keɪn / Another word for cain — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Cain is a biblical figure and the eldest son of Adam and Eve who murdered his brother Abel.

Synonyms & similar words

cain killer murderer homicide assassin slayer butcher executioner hitman gunman perpetrator criminal felon wrongdoer malefactor offender delinquent culprit villain scoundrel miscreant

Synonyms by register

Formal

strife discord enmity rancor animosity

Informal

feud bad blood beef grudge spite

Literary

malice venom odium

Antonyms

peace harmony accord friendship amity concord

Common collocations

  • brother against brother
  • mark of cain
  • seed of cain
  • curse of cain
  • son of cain
  • spirit of cain

Word family

noun Cain

Usage note

Cain refers to the biblical figure, the first murderer. It is often used metaphorically to denote fratricide or a deep-seated, often familial, hatred.

Example sentences

  1. Cain killed his brother Abel.
  2. Cain is a character in the Bible.
  3. The story of Cain and Abel teaches us about jealousy and anger.
  4. Cain's actions caused him to be punished by God.
  5. Some people believe that Cain's descendants still exist today.

Quotes

  • 'Am I my brother's keeper?' - Cain
  • 'What have you done? The voice of your brother's blood is crying to me from the ground.' - God to Cain
  • 'And Cain went out from the presence of the Lord.' - Genesis 4:16

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