Atrocities Meaning

Atrocities

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Extremely cruel, violent, or inhumane acts, often involving harm to people.
2. A shocking and brutal action that violates moral or ethical standards.
3. A crime or wrongdoing that causes immense suffering or destruction.

History and Origin

The word “atrocity” originates from the Latin atrox, meaning “fierce” or “cruel.” It evolved into the French atrocité before entering the English language in the late 16th century. Initially, it described acts of extreme cruelty or wickedness, often in the context of war or human rights violations.

Detailed Explanation

“Atrocities” refer to acts of extreme cruelty, often involving violence, oppression, or serious injustice. The term is commonly used in discussions about war crimes, genocide, and large-scale human rights abuses. These acts shock the conscience due to their severity and disregard for human dignity.

Atrocities are often associated with historical and political events, such as massacres, ethnic cleansing, and acts of terrorism. They are widely condemned by international laws and humanitarian organizations. In a broader sense, the word can also describe any act that is appallingly cruel or unjust, even outside the context of war.

Example Sentences

1. The war crimes tribunal investigated the atrocities committed during the conflict.
2. The world was horrified by the atrocities reported in the region.
3. Survivors shared heartbreaking stories of the atrocities they endured.
4. Human rights organizations work to prevent such atrocities from occurring again.
5. The government pledged to hold those responsible for the atrocities accountable.
6. History books document the atrocities of past dictatorships.
7. The footage revealed the full extent of the atrocities committed against civilians.
8. Many international leaders condemned the atrocities as crimes against humanity.
9. Justice for the victims of these atrocities remains a global concern.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Crimes – Serious offenses that violate laws and moral principles.
2. Brutalities – Acts of extreme violence and cruelty.
3. Massacres – Large-scale killings, often targeting innocent people.
4. Violations – Acts that breach laws, rights, or ethical standards.
5. Injustices – Unfair and wrongful acts that cause suffering.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Genocide – The deliberate killing of a large group of people, especially of a particular ethnic or national group.
2. Oppression – Prolonged cruel or unjust treatment of people.
3. Torture – The act of inflicting severe pain as punishment or coercion.
4. Destruction – Widespread damage or ruin caused by violent actions.
5. War crimes – Serious violations of international humanitarian laws during armed conflicts.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Tyranny – Cruel and oppressive rule or government.
2. Carnage – Large-scale killing and destruction, especially in war.
3. Horrors – Events or actions that cause great fear and suffering.
4. Savageries – Extremely violent and uncivilized acts.
5. Barbarities – Acts of extreme cruelty and lack of humanity.

Antonyms

1. Kindness
2. Compassion
3. Justice
4. Mercy
5. Humanity