Meaning & Definition of word "Extermination"
Extermination
/ɪkˌstɜːrmɪˈneɪʃən/
noun:
- 1. The act of killing or destroying completely, especially referring to pests or unwanted organisms.
- Example: The extermination of the invasive species was essential to protect the local ecosystem.
- 2. The total destruction or eradication of a particular group, often used in historical or extreme contexts.
- Example: The extermination of the native population led to significant changes in the region's demographics.
- 3. A systematic and deliberate action to eliminate a threat or danger.
- Example: The government initiated an extermination campaign against the vermin that plagued the city.
Etymology
●From the Latin 'exterminatio' meaning 'driving out', from 'ex-' meaning 'out' and 'terminare' meaning 'to limit or bound'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
total extermination:
Complete destruction or removal.
wage extermination:
To carry out or engage in a campaign of killing or destruction.
Related Words
exterminate:
To destroy completely.
pest control:
The regulation or management of a species defined as a pest.
Slang Meanings of extermination
Meaning: To wipe out entirely.
● Example Sentence: We need to exteminate those weeds before they take over the garden.
Meaning: To kill off or remove completely.
● Example Sentence: It's time to exterm that behavior from the office!