Matricide is the act of killing one's mother. It is considered one of the most severe forms of homicide due to the deep emotional and social implications involved. This crime can stem from various factors, including psychological issues, family conflicts, or extreme circumstances. The term is derived from the Latin words "mater," meaning mother, and "caedere," meaning to kill. Matricide is often studied in the fields of psychology, criminology, and law to understand the motivations behind such actions and their impact on families and society.