Bloodshed/ˈblʌdʃed/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Non-literal Use Sometimes 'bloodshed' is used to mean general violence, not just killing. The riot led to massive bloodshed, with many injured. Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotations 'Bloodshed' often suggests negative judgment towards violence. The coup was marked by unwarranted bloodshed. Pro Tip 3/3Historical Context Used in historical contexts to discuss battles or violent events from the past. The bloodshed at the Battle of Gettysburg was tremendous.