Synonyms for

Murderer

Verb / ˈmɜ:dɜ:ɜ: / Another word for murderer — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A person who has committed murder.

Synonyms & similar words

liquidator manslayer killer assassin homicide slayer butcher executioner hitman maniac thug death-dealer liquidator perpetrator poisoner strangler terrorist triggerman

Synonyms by register

Formal

homicider assassin slayer

Informal

killer butcher hitman

Literary

executioner manslayer reaper

Antonyms

protector savior rescuer defender guardian benefactor

Common collocations

  • serial murderer
  • accidental murderer
  • convicted murderer
  • known murderer
  • brutal murderer
  • hired murderer
  • unidentified murderer

Word family

noun murder
verb murder
adjective murderous

Usage note

While 'murderer' specifically refers to someone who commits unlawful killing, 'killer' can be used more broadly for anyone who takes a life, including in self-defense or war.

Example sentences

  1. The police were searching for the murderer.
  2. The murderer left behind evidence at the scene of the crime.
  3. The family of the victim was devastated by the murderer's actions.
  4. The murderer was caught and brought to trial.
  5. The murderer pleaded guilty to the crime.

Quotes

  • The murderers are always the people you least suspect. - Agatha Christie
  • A murderer is regarded by the conventional world as something almost monstrous, but a murderer to himself is only an ordinary man. It is only if the murderer is a good man that he can be regarded as monstrous. - Graham Greene
  • I'm a murderer of words, I think, as far as being an influence on people. - John Trudell

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