Simple Definition of holocaust
the Holocaust : the killing of millions of Jews and other people by the Nazis during World War II
: an event or situation in which many people are killed and many things are destroyed especially by fire
Full Definition of holocaust
1 : a sacrifice consumed by fire
2 : a thorough destruction involving extensive loss of life especially through fire <a nuclear holocaust>
3 a often capitalized : the mass slaughter of European civilians and especially Jews by the Nazis during World War II —usually used with the b : a mass slaughter of people; especially : genocide
Examples of holocaust
The museum is devoted to the Holocaust.
There were fears of a nuclear holocaust.
Origin of holocaust
Middle English, from Late Latin holocaustum, from Greek holokauston, from neuter of holokaustos burnt whole, from hol- + kaustos burnt, from kaiein to burn — more at caustic
First Known Use: 13th century
HOLOCAUST Defined for Kids
Definition of holocaust
1 : a complete destruction especially by fire
2 often cap : the killing of civilians and especially Jews by the Nazis during World War II
Learn More about holocaust
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up holocaust? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).