fratricidal

[ fra-tri-sahyd-l ]

adjective

1. being or relating to the act of killing one’s brother or a member of one’s own tribe or group:

   The Mongol Empire was done in by its recurrent fratricidal infighting.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fratricidal¹

First recorded in 1665–75; fratricid(e) ( def ) + -al ¹( def )

Example Sentences

What really has rivals drooling is the idea of the fratricidal battle that will ensue if the deal gets done.

From The Daily Beast

Who could tell whether a fratricidal struggle might not ensue?

From Project Gutenberg

"It is my duty to prevent this fratricidal war, if possible," replied Ignatius, mildly.

From Project Gutenberg

The death of Ludwig the Pious was the signal for a succession of fratricidal wars.

From Project Gutenberg

I wont spoil your fishing, said Alice, fearing fratricidal strife.

From Project Gutenberg

War was now brooding over Canada—the fratricidal War of 1812.

From Project Gutenberg