holocaust

/'hɔləkɔ:st/

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Word: Holocaust

Part of Speech: Noun

Basic Definition:

The word "Holocaust" specifically refers to the mass murder of six million Jews and millions of other people during World War II, carried out by the Nazi regime in Germany from 1941 to 1945. It is a term that represents one of the darkest periods in human history.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "Holocaust" when discussing this specific historical event.
• It's important to capitalize the word because it refers to a significant event and is treated as a proper noun.

Example Sentence:

• "The Holocaust was a tragic event that should never be forgotten."

Advanced Usage:

In a broader sense, the term "holocaust" can also describe large-scale destruction or loss of life in other contexts, often related to fire or war.

Example in Advanced Context:

• "The city was left in ruins after the nuclear holocaust."

Word Variants:

• Holocaustic (adjective): Relating to the Holocaust.
  • Example: "The Holocaustic events of the 20th century remind us of the importance of tolerance."

Different Meanings:

1. General Meaning: Outside of the historical context, "holocaust" can mean a large-scale destruction or slaughter, especially by fire.
   • Example: "The wildfires caused a holocaust of wildlife in the area."

Synonyms:

• Catastrophe
• Destruction
• Massacre (in a more general sense)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "holocaust," you might encounter phrases that discuss destruction or loss in a broader sense, such as: - "Go up in flames" (to be destroyed by fire) - Example: "The old building went up in flames during the fire."

Important Note:

When using the term "Holocaust," it's crucial to treat it with respect and sensitivity, as it refers to a historical atrocity that affected millions of lives.

Academic

Noun

1. the mass murder of Jews under the German Nazi regime from 1941 until 1945
2. an act of mass destruction and loss of life (especially in war or by fire)
   • a nuclear holocaust

Synonyms

• Holocaust
• final solution