Euthanasy

/ˈjuːθənəsi/ noun

Definition

An alternative or older form of the word euthanasia; the practice of ending a life to relieve suffering.

Etymology

A variant spelling of euthanasia, from Greek eu- 'well' and thanatos 'death.' This form was more common in earlier English texts from the 17th-19th centuries before the -ia ending became standard.

Kelly Says

Language evolves—'euthanasy' is the forgotten cousin of 'euthanasia,' showing how medical terminology gets standardized over time as the medical community settles on preferred spellings and forms.

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