Synonyms for

Murderous

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

Definition

Having the intent or capability to commit murder.

Synonyms & similar words

homicidal deadly homicidal lethal bloodthirsty killer violent ruthless ferocious savage barbarous brutal cruel dangerous destructive fierce fiendish ghastly grisly macabre monstrous

Synonyms by register

Formal

homicidal lethal deadly fatal

Informal

killer bloodthirsty vicious

Literary

fell baleful grim

Antonyms

benevolent kind gentle peaceful harmless philanthropic benevolent

Common collocations

  • murderous intent
  • murderous rage
  • murderous attack
  • murderous look
  • murderous act
  • murderous weapon
  • murderous intent

Word family

noun murder
verb murder
adjective murderous
adverb murderously

Usage note

While 'murderous' directly relates to the act of murder, it can also be used hyperbolically to describe something extremely dangerous or intense, like a 'murderous storm'.

Example sentences

  1. The murderous thief stole the jewels and killed the guard.
  2. The wolf had a murderous look in its eyes.
  3. The dictator's regime was known for its murderous tactics.
  4. The horror movie had plenty of murderous scenes.
  5. The detective was determined to catch the murderous culprit.

Quotes

  • I have always thought that if women's hair posed so many problems, God would certainly have made us bald. -Murderous Maths
  • The difference between a murderer and the person who commits suicide lies only in their aim. -Murderous Maths
  • The most murderous regime in the world has consistently been the United States government. -Noam Chomsky

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words