Langimage
English

sanguinary

|san-gui-nar-y|

C2

🇺🇸

/ˈsæŋɡwɪˌnɛri/

🇬🇧

/ˈsæŋɡwɪnəri/

bloodshed

Etymology
Etymology Information

'sanguinary' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'sanguinarius,' where 'sanguis' meant 'blood.'

Historical Evolution

'sanguinarius' transformed into the Old French word 'sanguinaire,' and eventually became the modern English word 'sanguinary' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'pertaining to blood,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'involving or causing much bloodshed.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

involving or causing much bloodshed.

The battle was a sanguinary affair, leaving many wounded.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

bloodthirsty; eager to shed blood.

The sanguinary tyrant showed no mercy to his enemies.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/03/23 05:27