casualty list
Noun (countable): A "casualty list" is a formal record or report that names the individuals who have been killed, wounded, or reported missing, especially in a military conflict, battle, or disaster. It is typically compiled and published by official authorities.
- (An official record of those killed and wounded in the conflict.)
- (A list of those affected by a natural disaster.)
"to be on the casualty list": to be officially recorded as killed, wounded, or missing.
- His brother was on the casualty list from the battle last week. (His brother was officially reported as a casualty.)
"to update the casualty list": to revise the record as new information becomes available.
- The military updates the casualty list daily to reflect new reports from the front lines. (The record is changed to include recent casualties.)
Casualty (n): a person who is killed or injured in a war or accident; also refers to the event itself.
- The hospital treated many casualties after the explosion. (Injured people.)
List (n): a series of names, items, or figures written or printed together.
- Please add your name to the list of volunteers. (A written record.)
- Death roll: a list of people who have died, especially in a disaster or war.
- Roll of honor: a list of those who have died in service, often with positive connotations.
- Casualty report: a broader term that may include details beyond names.
To head the casualty list: to be the first or most prominent name on such a list.
- The young captain headed the casualty list after the ambush. (He was the first casualty reported.)
To make the casualty list: to be included as a casualty.
- Many soldiers made the casualty list during the prolonged siege. (They were recorded as killed, wounded, or missing.)
- The term is most commonly used in military, medical, and disaster contexts. It is a compound noun, so both words ("casualty" and "list") are essential to its meaning. Do not confuse it with "casual" (meaning informal or relaxed), which is a different word.