electrocution

== English == === Etymology === Blend of electro- +‎ execution. By surface analysis, electrocute +‎ -ion. Coined in the US around 1888, in relation to the introduction of the electric chair (see quotes). === Pronunciation === IPA(key): /ɪˌlɛktɹəˈkjuːʃən/ === Noun === electrocution (countable and uncountable, plural electrocutions) (originally) Deliberate execution by electric shock, usually involving an electric chair. Synonym: electrothanasia — rare, archaic The accidental death or suicide by electric shock. (informal, proscribed) A severe electric shock, whether fatal or not. ==== Usage notes ==== Formally, the words electrocution and electrocute imply fatality (and originally referred specifically to judicial execution, although the latter distinction has fallen out of use). Informally, however, these terms are sometimes used to refer to serious but nonfatal electric shocks. Preferred usage is to normally reserve electrocution for fatal electric shocks, and to use shock or electric shock for non-fatal ones. ==== Derived terms ==== ==== Translations ==== ==== See also ==== execution === References ===