Meaning & use
euthanasia
The deliberate ending of a life, typically that of a terminally ill or suffering patient, to relieve pain.
See it in a sentence
The country's parliament debated legalizing euthanasia for terminally ill patients.
The vet recommended euthanasia to end the old dog's suffering.
A note on using this word
Euthanasia is a sensitive legal and ethical term, distinct from assisted suicide, in which the patient acts alone.
Words with a similar meaning
mercy killing
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