Manhunt - English Definition & Meaning

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Definition

A manhunt is an intensive search for a person, typically someone who has escaped from custody or is suspected of a crime. It's like a high-stakes game of hide-and-seek, but with serious consequences. Unlike a regular search, a manhunt involves many resources and a sense of urgency. The focus is on capturing a specific individual who is considered dangerous or a flight risk. Think of it as the opposite of a casual stroll; it's a focused and determined pursuit. It's more intense than a missing person search because there's an element of law enforcement trying to bring someone to justice.

Etymology

The word 'manhunt' is a compound of 'man' and 'hunt.' 'Man,' of course, refers to a human being, derived from the Old English 'mann.' 'Hunt' comes from the Old English 'huntian,' meaning to pursue or chase prey. The combined term likely emerged in the 19th century as law enforcement became more organized. It specifically described the tracking and pursuit of a human fugitive. It emphasizes the deliberate and organized nature of the search.

Related Words

Examples

  • "The police launched a manhunt for the escaped convict."
  • "The FBI joined the manhunt after the suspect crossed state lines."
  • "The manhunt intensified as the suspect remained at large for days."
  • "Local news provided updates throughout the manhunt."

Anecdote / Story

Imagine you're playing 'Among Us,' but instead of a spaceship, it's a whole city. The Impostor is real, and the crewmates are the police launching a full-scale manhunt. Every alley, every building, becomes part of the game. The stakes are high, and the tension is palpable, just like when you're the last one standing against the Impostor.

Encouragement

Use 'manhunt' to describe any intense search, not just for criminals. It adds a sense of drama and urgency to your writing. So go ahead, spice up your vocabulary! 🚀

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