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!