Which term refers to the crime of killing an infant by the mother?

Infanticide specifically refers to the act of a mother killing her own infant, typically defined as a child under one year of age. This term carries particular legal implications and often acknowledges the unique circumstances surrounding a mother's mental state during the act, such as postpartum depression or other psychological issues.

By contrast, manslaughter refers to a broader category of unintentional killing that occurs in the heat of passion or without premeditation, while homicide is a general term encompassing all instances of unlawful killing, including murder and manslaughter. Assault involves causing physical harm or the threat of harm to another individual, which is unrelated to the act of killing. Hence, infanticide is the most accurate term in this context, as it specifically highlights the crime of a mother killing her infant, addressing both the relationship and legal considerations involved.