electrocute
UK[ɪˈlɛktrəˌkjuːt]US[ɪˈlɛktrəˌkjuːt]
v
To injure or kill someone by electric shock.
v
(informal) To execute (a condemned person) by means of a powerful electric current.
Morpheme Breakdown
electro
cute
electro
electric
cute
from execute
Etymology
The word 'electrocute' is a portmanteau, a deliberate and modern blend of 'electricity' and 'execute'. It was coined in the late 19th century in the United States, specifically to describe the novel method of execution by electric chair, first used in 1890. The first element, 'electro-', directly references the source of power. The second element, '-cute', is a clever truncation of 'execute', chosen for its phonetic fit and clear semantic link to putting to death. While its original use was precise, the term quickly broadened in common usage to describe any fatal or severe injury caused by accidental contact with electricity, blending its specific judicial origin with a more general meaning.
Analysis
Structure: electro (electric) + cute (from execute)
- electro: From Greek 'ēlektron' (amber, associated with electricity). In this word, it functions as a combining form meaning 'electric' or 'electricity'.
- cute: A shortened, altered form of the English word 'execute', from Latin 'exsequi' (to follow out, carry out). In this word, it functions as the verb base meaning 'to kill'.
Examples
The old appliance had faulty wiring and could electrocute someone.
The prisoner was sentenced to be electrocuted.
He nearly electrocuted himself while trying to fix the live socket.