slaughterhouse

Everyday

1. A place where farm animals such as cows, pigs, sheep and chickens are killed for their meat. tree →
2. (figurative) A place or event where many people are killed. tree →

In the lessons

In science, food and ethics lessons, slaughterhouses (also called abattoirs) are part of how meat reaches shops; pupils may discuss animal welfare rules and why some people choose to be vegetarian. In history and serious stories it can describe a battle. It is a serious word, not for jokes.

Examples

• Cattle are taken to a slaughterhouse before their meat is sold. tree →
• Laws say animals must be treated without cruelty at the slaughterhouse. tree →
• The old slaughterhouse in town is now a museum. tree →
• Some people became vegetarian after learning about slaughterhouses. tree →
• Vets check the animals at the slaughterhouse. tree →
• In Kurt Vonnegut's novel, a slaughterhouse in Dresden gives the book its name. tree →

Note

Countable. Another word: «abattoir» (UK, Australia). Comes from «slaughter» (to kill animals for food, or to kill many people).