Suicide

Definition

Suicide is the act of causing one's own death intentionally, typically as a result of depression or other mental health issues.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsuːɪˌsaɪd/
• Respelling: SOO-i-side (with "SOO" as in "soon," "i" as in "bit," and "side" as in "side")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsuːɪsaɪd/
• Respelling: SOO-i-side (similar to American English, with "SOO" as in "soon," "i" like in "bit," and "side" as in "side")

In both dialects, "suicide" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "SOO." The pronunciation of "suicide" is consistent across both American and British English, clearly reflecting the word's composition.

Etymology

The term "suicide" is derived from Latin suicidium, from sui caedere, "to kill oneself". The Latin term "sui" translates to "of oneself" and "caedere" translates to "to kill".

Derivatives

• Suicidal
• Suicidality
• Suicide note
• Suicide pact
• Suicide prevention

Synonyms

• Self-killing
• Self-murder
• Self-slaughter

Antonyms

None.

Usage

The term "suicide" is utilized in various contexts mostly relating to mental health, medical, legal, and sociological discussions. It's a crucial term when addressing mental health issues and preventive measures.

Related Terms

• Assisted suicide
• Euthanasia
• Self-harm

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Intentional Act: The act of intentionally causing one's own death, usually as a result of depression, other mental illnesses, or feeling overwhelmed by life circumstances.‍
• Example: The rise in suicide rates is a public health concern that requires immediate attention and intervention.

• A Harming Action Against One's Interest: An action that is undertaken, although damaging or disastrous to oneself.‍
• Example: Some political analysts view the policy as economic suicide due to its potential to drive away investors.