Vocabulary Spotlight
Bestial
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition: Resembling or relating to a beast; showing brutal, savage, or animalistic behavior.
“The soldiers were horrified by the bestial violence inflicted on civilians.”
Pronunciation
[bes-chuhl]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Brutal
Inhumane
Animalistic
Ferocious
Antonyms
Humane
Compassionate
Gentle
Kind
Related Words
Vicious
Barbaric
Word Origin
“Bestial” originates from Latin “bestialis,” meaning “like a beast.” It describes behaviors or actions that are considered cruel or primitive.
Word Family
Adjective: Bestial – Resembling a beast; brutal or savage.
Noun: Beast – An animal, especially one that is large or wild.
Adverb: Bestially – In a way that is savage or cruel.
Mnemonics
Think “beast” in “bestial” – referring to animal-like or savage behavior.
Industry-specific Usage
Psychology
In psychology, “bestial” may describe behavior that is unrestrained and primitive, often driven by base instincts.
Law
In legal contexts, “bestial” actions may refer to particularly cruel or inhumane crimes.
Literature
In literature, characters may be described as “bestial” to emphasize their lack of civility or humanity.
In Context
“Bestial” is often used to describe actions or behaviors that are brutal, savage, or inhumane, invoking the image of an animal rather than a human.