victim

noun

vic·​tim ˈvik-təm 

1

: one that is acted on and usually adversely affected by a force or agent

the schools are victims of the social system

: such as

a(1)

: one that is injured, destroyed, or sacrificed under any of various conditions

a victim of cancer

a victim of the auto crash

a murder victim

(2)

: one that is subjected to oppression, hardship, or mistreatment

a frequent victim of political attacks

b

: one that is tricked or duped

a con man's victim

2

: a living being sacrificed to a deity or in the performance of a religious rite

victimhood

ˈvik-təm-ˌhu̇d 

noun

Synonyms of victim

• fatality
• casualty
• prey

Examples of victim in a Sentence

the victims of a hoax

He was the victim of an error.

Recent Examples on the Web

The family was not present Friday for the medical examiner’s testimony, which featured graphic autopsy photos including two puncture wounds to the chest and abdomen that the medical examiner determined caused the victim’s death. — Jason Kravarik, CNN Money, 25 July 2026

Another victim Leverett’s former girlfriend who called 911 on the day of the shooting recently spoke to the Star-Telegram on the condition on anonymity out of concern for her safety. — Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 July 2026

Friday’s news release from the Jacksonville Police Department asked for anyone with information about other potential victims to contact detectives. — Grant Lancaster, Arkansas Online, 24 July 2026

Listening to earthquake victims For de Belleroche, WCK’s work goes beyond preparing and distributing meals. — Sonia Osorio, Miami Herald, 24 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin victima; perhaps akin to Old High German wīh holy

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing victim

• fall victim to
• fashion victim
• victim mentality

Rhymes for victim

• dictum

Kids Definition

victim

noun

vic·​tim ˈvik-təm 

1

: a living being offered as a sacrifice in a religious rite

2

: an individual injured or killed (as by disease or accident)

3

: a person cheated, fooled, or harmed by another