killer

/'kilə/

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Word: Killer

Part of Speech: Noun

Basic Explanation:

The word "killer" has a few meanings, but generally, it refers to something or someone that causes death. It can also describe a very difficult situation or challenge.

Meanings:

1. A Person or Animal That Causes Death: This is the most straightforward meaning. A killer can be someone who intentionally causes the death of another person, or it can refer to a dangerous animal.

   • Example: "The lion is a killer in the wild because it hunts other animals for food."

2. A Difficulty or Challenge: This usage describes something that is very hard to deal with or overcome.

   • Example: "That math exam was a real killer; I studied for hours but still found it difficult."

3. A Cause of Death: Referring to diseases or conditions that lead to death.

   • Example: "Heart disease is the biggest killer in the United States."

Usage Instructions:

• Use "killer" to describe someone who has caused death, either in a literal sense or in a more figurative way (like in movies or books).
• Use "killer" when talking about challenges or difficulties, especially in a casual or informal context.

Advanced Usage:

In a more advanced context, "killer" can be used to describe something that is very impressive or excellent. - Example: "That new smartphone has a killer camera!"

Word Variants:

• Killing (verb/noun): The act of causing death.
  • Example: "The killing of the endangered species is illegal."
• Kill (verb): To cause the death of someone or something.
  • Example: "He did not mean to kill the insect."

Synonyms:

• Murderer: A person who unlawfully kills another person.
• Slayer: Someone who kills, often used in a more dramatic context.
• Assassin: A person who kills someone for political reasons or for money.

Different Meanings:

• Figurative Use: In addition to the meanings above, "killer" can refer to anything that is extremely effective or impressive in a positive way, like a great performance or an astonishing feature.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Killer instinct: Refers to a natural ability to succeed in a competitive situation.

  • Example: "She has a killer instinct in business; she always knows how to win clients."

• Killer app: This term is used in technology to describe a software application that is so useful that it drives sales of the hardware or software it runs on.

  • Example: "That video game is a killer app for the new gaming console."

Academic

Noun

1. predatory black-and-white toothed whale with large dorsal fin; common in cold seas
2. a difficulty that is hard to deal with
   • that exam was a real killer
3. the causal agent resulting in death
   • heart disease is the biggest killer in the United States
4. someone who causes the death of a person or animal

Synonyms

• killer whale
• orca
• grampus
• sea wolf
• Orcinus orca
• cause of death
• slayer