electrocution

American  

[ih-lek-truh-kyoo-shuhn] / ɪˌlɛk trəˈkju ʃən /

noun

1. death or injury from electricity passing through the body.

   The electrical cord used to light the showers was exposed to standing water, posing risk of electrocution.

   One current source of danger for golden eagles is electrocution on power poles that are not constructed to bird-friendly standards.

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Etymology

Origin of electrocution

An Americanism first recorded in 1885–90; electro- ( def. ) + (exe)cution ( def. )

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

electrocution

At four years old, she was killed by electrocution, an all too common cause of death for large birds of prey.

From Science Daily ● Dec. 11, 2025

According to a 2014 analysis of bird deaths across the U.S., electrocution on power lines is a significant cause of bird mortality.

From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 26, 2025

Vance can speak in complete sentences without rambling about sharks or electrocution.

From Salon ● Jul. 31, 2024

Mr Knight told Radio Wiltshire the early part of Jason's treatment had been especially difficult as the electrocution had continued to "kill the body" even after the initial shock.

From BBC ● May 31, 2024

Supreme Court, where it was argued that electrocution would constitute “cruel and unusual punishment.”

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover