A gunshot wound to the head caused by a firearm. Such injuries are usually fatal.
example
Der Kriminalroman begann mit dem Fund einer Leiche, die durch einen Kopfschuss getötet wurde.
The crime novel began with the discovery of a body that had been killed by a headshot.
Usage tips
Compound structure
The word is a clear compound of 'der Kopf' (the head) and 'der Schuss' (the shot). Its meaning is therefore direct and literal: a shot to the head.
EXAMPLE
Die Ermittler untersuchten die Spuren des Kopfschusses.
The investigators examined the traces of the headshot.
Typical collocations
Common verbs used with 'Kopfschuss' (headshot) are 'erleiden' (to suffer), 'bekommen' (to get), and 'sich zuziehen' (to sustain). If death is the result, people often say that someone is 'durch einen Kopfschuss gestorben' (died from a headshot).
EXAMPLE
Der Zeuge sagte aus, das Opfer sei durch einen Kopfschuss getötet worden.
The witness stated that the victim had been killed by a headshot.
Context
'Kopfschuss' (headshot) is a very direct and often graphic word. It is used mainly in specific contexts such as crime reports, news, films, or medical reports.
EXAMPLE
Im Actionfilm überlebt der Held wie durch ein Wunder einen Kopfschuss.
In the action film, the hero miraculously survives a headshot.