Meaning & Definition of word "Endanger"

Endanger

/ɪnˈdeɪn.dʒər/

verb:

  • 1. to put (someone or something) at risk or in danger.
    • Example: Pollution can endanger the health of local wildlife.
  • 2. to expose to danger or harm.
    • Example: His reckless driving could endanger the lives of others on the road.
  • 3. to put in a situation where there is a chance of loss or injury.
    • Example: Overfishing can endanger entire fish populations.
  • 4. to jeopardize.
    • Example: The company's financial troubles may endanger its future.

Etymology

Derived from 'en-' meaning 'to cause to be' combined with 'danger' from Latin 'damnum' meaning 'loss, harm'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

endanger wildlife:

to threaten species with extinction or habitat loss

endanger one's reputation:

to put one's good name at risk of harm

endanger the mission:

to jeopardize the success of a task or goal

Related Words

danger:

the possibility of suffering harm or injury

jeopardy:

a situation in which there is a risk of danger or loss

Slang Meanings of endanger

Meaning: to take risks that could result in serious consequences

Example Sentence: That crazy stunt you pulled could really endanger your career!

Meaning: to place oneself in a potentially harmful situation

Example Sentence: Don't endanger yourself just to impress your friends.