death roll

The term "death roll" is used in both nautical and animal behavior contexts, and it can also refer to a list of deceased individuals.

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Definition

C1Sailing

(technical)A dangerous situation in which a keel boat broaches to windward, causing the boom and mainsail to crash across the deck.

Example

  • The crew had to act quickly to prevent a death roll during the race.

B2Animal Behavior

(biological)A maneuver by crocodilians where they spin rapidly underwater to subdue prey or tear off meat.

Example

  • The crocodile performed a death roll to overpower its prey.

C1Record Keeping

(formal)A list or record of individuals who have died, often used in military or disaster contexts.

Example

  • The death roll from the earthquake was published by the authorities.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "death roll":

death ridedeath throedeath spiraldeath griproll overdeath rattlefight to the deathdeath adderroll step