What does electrocuted mean?
The term electrocuted refers to the act of killing or severely injuring someone through electric shock, usually from a high-voltage source. This can occur accidentally, such as through faulty wiring or electrical equipment, or intentionally, as in the case of electrocution as a method of execution. The word is often used in discussions about electrical safety, industrial accidents, and legal or medical analyses of such incidents. Understanding the term electrocuted is important for recognizing the risks associated with electrical current and for promoting safety measures to prevent such accidents. The term carries a serious connotation due to its association with severe injury or death.
verbTo kill or seriously injure someone with an electric shock, typically from a high-voltage source. The person is struck by a lethal or severely damaging amount of electrical current.
- To cause death or severe injury through electric shock.
- To be killed or severely injured by an electric shock.
"The worker was electrocuted when he touched the exposed wiring."
"The maintenance worker was electrocuted while repairing the power line."
"The faulty wiring had electrocuted several people in the building before it was fixed."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of electrocuted
The word electrocuted originates from the combination of 'electric' and 'executed'. The term emerged in the late 19th century, shortly after the development of electric power systems and the use of electricity for executions. It is derived from the idea of being executed or killed by electric current.
Usage notes
This term often implies a fatal or severely injuring outcome from electric shock. It is commonly used in contexts involving accidents, electrical safety, and capital punishment.