I. ˈkilə(r) noun
( -s )
Usage: often attributive
Etymology: kill (I) + -er
1. : one that kills:
a. : murderer ; especially : a homicidal criminal or maniac
b. : slaughterer ; also : one who buys animals for slaughter
killers took a big share of the choice of low prime yearlings — Chicago Daily Drovers Journal
c. : an effective bait in fishing
d. : something that has a forceful and usually violent impact
a backhand stroke that was a killer
his punch was a killer
e. slang : one who gives an admirable or irresistible personal or sartorial impression
she was no killer on looks — Garson Kanin
2. : an animal to be killed for food or other use
3. or killer whale : a fierce carnivorous gregarious whale ( Orcinus orca syn. Orca orca ) 20 to 30 feet long that is black with yellowish white areas on sides and underparts, has a high dorsal fin, powerful tail, and sharp strong teeth, and preys on large fishes, seals, and even in groups on the larger whales
4. : a postal canceling stamp ; also : a cancellation mark on a postage stamp
II. noun
: one that is extremely difficult to deal with
seems sweet, but she is a killer at the negotiating table — Calvin Trillin
III. adjective
Etymology: killer , noun
1. : strikingly impressive or effective
a killer smile
a killer résumé
2. : extremely difficult to deal with
a killer fast ball
also : causing death or devastation
a killer tornado