Suicide Meaning and Definition
Suicide
Pronunciation
/ˈsuɪˌsɪd/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
- Suicide
-
The act of killing oneself intentionally; self-inflicted death.
Also refers to the act of causing one’s own end or destruction.
Examples
- The devastating impact of online harassment led to her considering suicide.
- Suicide rates have increased among young adults due to stress and financial burdens.
- The famous artist struggled with depression, making it a theme in her art and personal life, which she often explored in her work before her eventual suicide in 1967.
Synonyms
- Self-destruction
- Deliberate self-killing
Antonyms
- Survival
- Self-preservation
Etymology
The term ‘suicide’ originated in the 15th century, derived from the Latin words ‘sui’ meaning ‘of oneself’ and ‘caedere’ meaning ‘to kill’.
Initially, it referred to the act of killing oneself in war, but the meaning expanded over time to include all forms of self-inflicted death.
Usage Notes
When referring to an individual who has died by suicide, the preferred term is ‘died by suicide,’ rather than ‘committed suicide.’
Avoid using stigmatizing language or sensationalizing the topic, as it can exacerbate prejudice and stigma against people struggling with mental health issues.
When discussing the topic in a formal or academic setting, it is essential to use precise and respectful language to acknowledge the complexity of the issue.
Cultural References
The topic of suicide has been extensively dealt with in literature, music, and film, often as a means of raising awareness and promoting discussion about mental health.
Examples include The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath, The Book of Life by Chuck Palahniuk, and End of the Century by Lucile Hadžihalilović, which all explore themes related to suicide.
Many artists, such as Kurt Cobain, Amy Winehouse, and Marilyn Monroe, have struggled with mental health issues and ultimately succumbed to suicide.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- ‘Taking one’s own life’
- ‘Ending one’s own life’
- ‘Passing away by one’s own hand’
Related Words or Phrases
- Attempted suicide
- Suicidal ideation
- Mental health crisis
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Collocations
- Suicide rates
- Mental health support
- Suicidal thoughts
- Preventing suicide
Frequency of Use
The term ‘suicide’ is often used in academic, media, and social contexts to discuss the complexities surrounding mental health, death, and dying.
Due to its sensitive nature, the frequency of use can vary greatly depending on the audience and purpose of the conversation.
Common Misspellings
- Suicid
- Suycide
- Suicidee
Additional Information
Suicidal behavior can stem from a range of factors, including mental health disorders, trauma, stress, and societal pressures.
Understanding the complexities surrounding suicidal behavior requires empathy, education, and support.
Initiatives like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) provide essential resources for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts or feelings.
Many countries have implemented national strategies to prevent suicide and provide help for those at risk.
Governments and organizations play a crucial role in reducing stigma around mental health, investing in mental health services, and implementing evidence-based suicide prevention strategies.
Pre-existing mental health conditions can increase the risk of suicidal behavior.
Warning signs, such as impulsivity, substance abuse, and aggression, should be addressed promptly to prevent severe consequences.
Online forums and social media platforms should maintain a sensitive tone and avoid sensationalizing suicidal content.
Effective prevention strategies focus on addressing underlying issues through education, therapy, and community involvement.
Factors like societal and cultural pressures, family dynamics, and medical conditions can also contribute to increased suicidal risk.