1. the act of beheading or cutting off the head of a person
Usage: formal; often historical or religious context
2. the removal or separation of the head from the body
Usage: technical; medical or anatomical context

Examples

• The decollation of Saint John the Baptist is a common subject in religious art.
• Historical records describe the decollation of the prisoner as a form of capital punishment.
• The painting depicts the decollation with dramatic lighting and emotion.
• Medieval texts document the decollation of various martyrs.
• The decollation was carried out in the public square as a warning to others.