1
[Latin matricidium, from matr- + -cidium -cide] : murder of a mother by her son or daughter
2
[Latin matricida, from matr- + -cida -cide] : one that murders his or her mother

Examples of matricide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Easily the nation’s most notable parolee, Gypsy Rose Blanchard, 32, was released Dec. 28 having served eight years of her 10-year sentence for matricide. Stephen Schaefer, Boston Herald, 13 Jan. 2024 However, Daniel's hold over Luke proves to be strong, and almost leads him to commit matricide. Amy MacKelden, Harper's BAZAAR, 24 Sep. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of matricide was in 1594

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Matricide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/matricide. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

1
: murder of a mother by her child
2
: one that murders his or her mother

Medical Definition

1
: murder of a mother by her son or daughter
2
: one that murders his or her mother

Legal Definition

matricide

noun
1
: the murder of a mother by her son or daughter
2
[Latin matricida, from matr- + -cida killer] : a person who murders his or her mother
Etymology

Latin matricidium, from matr-, mater mother + -cidium killing

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