Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkɑː.nɪdʒ/

Definitions

• 1. The killing of a large number of people, especially in a violent, bloody manner.
• 2. Extensive destruction of life or property, often associated with a massacre or a large-scale battle.

Usage Examples

• The battlefield was strewn with the carnage of the fallen soldiers.
• The bombing left behind scenes of horrific carnage in the city center.
• The political upheaval resulted in widespread carnage across the country.

Etymology

Derived from the Middle French "carnage," which means slaughter, massacre. This word is from the Latin "carnaticum," meaning "slaughter of flesh," from "carn-" meaning "flesh" and the suffix "-age," denoting an action or result. The term first came into use in English in the late 14th century.

Synonyms

• Slaughter
• Massacre
• Butchery
• Bloodbath
• Havoc

Antonyms

• Peace
• Harmony
• Tranquility
• Safety

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the pronunciation is often heard with a more pronounced 'a' sound: /ˈkɑː.nɪdʒ/.
• In British English, the word is typically pronounced the same way, but may sound softer: /ˈkɑː.nɪdʒ/.

Historical Usage

The word "carnage" has been used since the Middle Ages to describe the aftermath of large-scale violence, particularly in battle or political conflicts. The term gained prominence in describing events like the massacre of innocent civilians or military personnel during wars or revolutions. It has been used extensively in literature, news reports, and historical accounts to refer to the brutal consequences of violence.

Cultural Nuances

Carnage, as a word, carries a heavy connotation of extreme violence and death, often evoking horror and the devastating impact of conflict. In modern contexts, the word is frequently used to describe mass destruction or slaughter in various scenarios, including natural disasters, wars, and even metaphorically to describe competitive environments or business scenarios where there is extreme destruction.

More Information

Carnage is commonly used to describe large-scale and brutal violence, often with a focus on the aftermath. While it is frequently used to describe battles, massacres, and violent events in history, it can also be used in a more figurative sense, describing any situation marked by extreme chaos or destruction. The term is often used in media, literature, and discussions related to conflicts, war crimes, or social upheaval. Despite its grim meaning, the word remains a potent symbol of the destructiveness that human beings can inflict on one another.