baby-killer

English

Etymology

The Vietnam War veteran usage stems from the My Lai massacre, in which several civilians, including infants, were massacred.

Pronunciation

• Audio (AU)

  (file)

Noun

baby-killer (plural baby-killers)

1. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see baby,‎ killer.
   • 1911, Michigan's Health, volumes 6-7, page 90:

     The following named soothing-syrups commonly given to children during their teething period have been proclaimed by the United States government chemists as “baby killers;” and the public is hereby warned against the use of any of these preparations for children […]

   1. (slang, derogatory) An abortionist (all senses).
      • 1999, Charisma and Christian Life, volume 24, numbers 6-11, page 38:

        He promised to protect and serve "even a baby killer like yourself," but also to do everything in his office's power "to assist the protesters who wish to protect the misguided mothers who come to your clinic of death."

   2. (slang, derogatory) A pregnant woman who receives an abortion.
   3. (slang, derogatory, dated) A Vietnam War veteran.

Alternative forms

• babykiller, baby killer