ferocity

noun

fe·​roc·​i·​ty fə-ˈrä-sə-tē How to pronounce ferocity (audio)
Synonyms of ferocity
: the quality or state of being ferocious
the ferocity of the lion's attack

Examples of ferocity in a Sentence

the ferocity of the lion's attack We were stunned by the ferocity of the storm.
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.
Love emphasized that a week of partying and art viewing on the playa can breed ferocity. — Henry Alford, New Yorker, 29 Aug. 2026 The scale, organization and ferocity of the operation led to accusations of ethnic cleansing and genocide from the international community, including the United Nations. — ABC News, 25 Aug. 2026 To protect himself, however, Trask has created an inhibitor field that de-powers any mutant nearby, dulling Wolverine’s healing power and ferocity. — Jordan Moreau, Variety, 13 Aug. 2026 The savage battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa had already demonstrated the ferocity with which Japanese forces would defend their homeland. — James M. Scott, Time, 10 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ferocity

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ferocity was in 1606

Rhymes for ferocity

See All Rhymes for ferocity

Browse Nearby Words

ferociousness
ferocity
-ferous
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ferocity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ferocity. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for ferocity

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