Word: Roadkill
Definition:
"Roadkill" is a noun that refers to the dead body of an animal that has been hit and killed by a vehicle on a road.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "roadkill" when talking about animals that have been accidentally killed by cars, trucks, or other vehicles. It is often used in discussions about traffic, wildlife, and environmental issues.
Example Sentence:
"I saw a deer as roadkill on the highway during our trip."
Advanced Usage:
In more advanced contexts, "roadkill" can be used metaphorically to describe situations where someone or something is harmed or damaged due to a larger force or situation, similar to how animals are harmed by vehicles.
Word Variants:
- Roadkill (noun): The main form used to describe the dead animal. - Roadkilled (verb, past tense): To have killed an animal by running over it with a vehicle.
Example: "The driver accidentally roadkilled a raccoon last night."
Different Meaning:
While "roadkill" primarily refers to animals, it can also be used informally to describe anything that is damaged or destroyed in a careless or brutal way, although this is less common.
Synonyms:
- Animal casualty - Wildlife casualty - Carcass (though this is more general and can refer to any dead body)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "roadkill," but you might hear phrases like "hit and run" which can refer to a situation where a driver hits an animal or person and leaves the scene.
Understanding "roadkill" helps you discuss wildlife, driving, and environmental topics.