murdering

Murdering is the unlawful killing of a human being by another person, typically with malice aforethought. In criminal law, murder is a form of homicide distinguished by intent to kill or to cause serious injury, frequently involving planning or extreme recklessness. The term is used in many legal systems, though exact definitions and penalties vary by jurisdiction.

Common legal distinctions include first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and manslaughter. First-degree murder usually requires premeditation or killing during the commission of another serious crime; second-degree murder involves intentional killing without premeditation; manslaughter covers killings with lesser mental culpability, such as in the heat of passion or as a result of reckless conduct. Some jurisdictions also recognize felony murder, under which a death occurring during a felony leads to murder liability regardless of intent.

Elements typically include an unlawful killing of a human being by another person, with malice aforethought, and without lawful justification. Defenses may include self-defense or defense of others, lack of intent, insanity, or procedural issues. Penalties vary widely, from long prison terms to life imprisonment, and in a minority of jurisdictions, the death penalty.

Historically, murder has been condemned and regulated by law and custom across societies. The word has deep roots in English and other Germanic languages. In casual speech, "to murder" can also mean to ruin or overpower something artistically or melodically, a figurative use unrelated to criminal liability.