electrocute

[ih-lek-truh-kyoot]

verb (used with object)

electrocuted, electrocuting 

1. to kill by electricity.

2. to execute (a criminal) by electricity, as in an electric chair.

3. to pass an electric current through; shock.

   The toaster burned my toast and then electrocuted me when I tried to unplug it.

electrocute

/ ɪˈlɛktrəˌkjuːt /

verb

1. to kill as a result of an electric shock

2. to execute in the electric chair

Other Word Forms

• electrocution noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of electrocute¹

An Americanism first recorded in 1885–90; electro- + (exe)cute

Word History and Origins

Origin of electrocute¹

C19: from _electro- + (exe)cute

Example Sentences

Pilcher was working last June when one of these recent recruits was electrocuted while working on high-voltage overhead lights, from a scissor lift, without gloves or other required safety equipment.

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Behind her, dancers gyrate like victims being electrocuted.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

"If I'd still been on the street, I wouldn't have been able to reach higher ground. There were lots of objects floating in the water. I could have been hit or even electrocuted."

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Myers said he worries the high-voltage lines could spark wildfires or electrocute people operating farm machinery nearby.

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They include footage of cats being drowned and electrocuted.

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