1. a person who kills another human being
Usage: archaic; biblical

Examples

• In ancient times, a manslayer could flee to a city of refuge for protection.
• The biblical law distinguished between an intentional murderer and an accidental manslayer.
• The manslayer sought sanctuary in the temple.
• According to Mosaic law, the manslayer was required to remain in the city of refuge.
• The term manslayer appears frequently in Old Testament texts.
• A manslayer who killed without premeditation received different treatment than a deliberate murderer.