: having or being a policy that prohibits killing
a no-kill fishing tournament
especially : having or being a policy that prohibits or severely limits the euthanizing of animals in a shelter
"I will spare no expense on veterinary care for our pets," says Renee, who has nine cats and is on the board of a no-kill shelter. Catherine Fredman
… shelters can euthanize up to 10 percent of their animals for reasons of health and temperament, and still be considered "no-kill." Greg Allen

Examples of no-kill in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The new Olathe Animal Shelter will remain a no-kill operation, meaning the shelter only administers euthanasia for animals with terminal illness or dangerous behavioral issues. Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 13 Mar. 2026 The Grey's Anatomy star was one of hundreds in attendance on Sunday at the 2026 edition of Wine, Women & Shoes, an annual fundraiser benefitting Florida's Big Dog Ranch Rescue, the nation's largest no-kill dog shelter. Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Mar. 2026 Many animal welfare groups tout no-kill philosophies like Rae’s as saving strays from unnecessary euthanasia. Amber Gaudet, Charlotte Observer, 12 Mar. 2026 Leo Grillo, 77, founder of a major no-kill animal sanctuary, was arrested on suspicion of planning to kidnap a former employee over a lost lawsuit. Brittny Mejia, Los Angeles Times, 4 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for no-kill

Word History

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of no-kill was in 1964

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Cite this Entry

“No-kill.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/no-kill. Accessed 26 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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