the savage and excessive killing of many people
"The invading army committed a horrific massacre, leaving hundreds of civilians dead in their homes."
The killing of a considerable number (usually limited to people) where little or no resistance can be made, with indiscriminate violence, without necessity, and contrary to civilized norms.
"The invading army committed a massacre by slaughtering the undefended village's civilians with brutal indifference."
In plain English: A massacre is an event where many people are killed brutally and violently, often by soldiers or attackers.
"The news report described the tragic massacre that took place in the small village last night."
Usage: Avoid using "massacre" as a casual synonym for any large-scale death; it specifically implies extreme brutality and the absence of necessary combat. Reserve this term for historical atrocities or severe violent events rather than accidental disasters or military casualties where resistance was actively met.
To kill in considerable numbers where little or no resistance can be made, with indiscriminate violence, without necessity, and contrary to civilized norms. (Often limited to the killing of human beings.)
"The invading army committed a massacre by slaughtering the unarmed villagers with indiscriminate violence and unnecessary cruelty."
In plain English: To massacre something means to destroy it completely and brutally, leaving nothing behind.
"The mob didn't just attack; they massacred anyone who tried to resist them."
The word "massacre" comes from Middle French and originally meant a slaughterhouse or butchery. Its ultimate origin is likely the Latin word for a butcher's shop.