slayer
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /slˈeɪə/
US
- /ˈsleɪər/
Description
- killer
- destroyer
- one who kills
The word "slayer" brings to mind epic battles and legendary heroes, but its basic meaning is simple: someone or something that kills. It often appears in dramatic phrases such as "dragon slayer" or "vampire slayer," and it can also describe a person known for killing a certain enemy or threat. The word feels stronger and more vivid than "killer." It often suggests force, skill, or a special role, which is why it is common in fantasy, myth, games, and bold storytelling.
"Slayer" is a noun for someone or something that kills, usually in a dramatic, forceful, or story-like way. It is strongly linked with mythology, fantasy, and legend. You hear it in names and titles such as "dragon slayer," "giant slayer," or "vampire slayer," where the word points to a person known for killing a certain enemy or threat.
In modern English, "slayer" is less common than "killer," and it sounds more literary or dramatic. Because of that, it is often chosen when the speaker wants the scene to feel vivid, heroic, cruel, or larger than life. A "slayer" may be admired, feared, or hated; the word itself does not tell you whether the person is good or bad. Context decides that.
The word can also appear in figurative writing for something that destroys or wipes out something else, especially in a striking phrase. For example, a harsh frost might be called a "crop slayer," or a severe illness might be described as a "silent slayer." These uses are less plain and more expressive than everyday speech.
So while you might picture a warrior with a sword when you hear "slayer," the core idea is simple: it means a killer, usually described in a more colorful, intense, or legendary way than usual.
Examples
- 1
Crime reporting
Police finally identified the singer's slayer years after the murder.
Usage
someone's slayer
the person who killed them; often used in news or formal writing
- 2
Fantasy story
In the old story, a young slayer is chosen to defeat the dragon.
- 3
Sports upset
After knocking out two top teams, the underdogs were called giant slayers.
Phrase
giant slayer
a weaker person or team that defeats a much stronger one
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- slayernoun
Forms
- slayerspluralnoun