killing
- The act of causing death, especially deliberately. nounThe killing of the deer was quick and humane.The detective investigated the killing that occurred in the alley.
- A large profit or financial gain. nounHe made a killing on the stock market last year.They made a killing by selling their house at the peak of the market.
- Causing death or destruction. adjectiveThe killing frost destroyed the entire crop.The killing blow was delivered swiftly.