What does suicidally mean?
Suicidally is an adverb that describes behavior, actions, or decisions that are characteristic of or conducive to suicide. It can be used to describe a manner or degree that suggests suicidal intent or attitude. The word is often used in psychological or medical contexts but can also be applied more broadly to describe recklessly self-destructive actions. Understanding the nuances of this word is crucial for accurately conveying the severity of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. The term is closely related to the concept of suicidal ideation and is used in various professional fields, including psychology and psychiatry.
adverbIn a manner that is characteristic of or conducive to suicide; to a degree that suggests a suicidal intent or attitude.
- In a suicidal manner
- To a suicidal degree
"The company's financial decisions were suicidally reckless, putting thousands of jobs at risk."
"The patient was thinking suicidally and needed immediate help."
"The new policy was suicidally shortsighted, ignoring long-term consequences."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of suicidally
The adverb 'suicidally' is derived from the adjective 'suicidal', which in turn comes from 'suicide', a term that originated in the 17th century from the Latin 'suicidium', a combination of 'sui' (of oneself) and 'cidium' (killing). The word has evolved to encompass not only the act of suicide but also behaviors and attitudes that suggest a suicidal intent.
How suicidally is actually used
This word is often used in psychological or medical contexts to describe thoughts or behaviors that indicate a risk of suicide. It can also be used more broadly to describe actions or decisions that are recklessly self-destructive.