Extinction

/ɪkˈstɪŋkʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The state or process of a species, family, or larger group being or becoming extinct.

The extinction of the dinosaurs occurred millions of years ago.

The gradual dying out of a species or group of organisms.

Conservation efforts are in place to prevent the extinction of endangered species.

The complete loss or disappearance of something.

The extinction of traditional languages is a concerning trend in many parts of the world.

Late Middle English: from Latin 'extinctio(n-)', from 'extinguere' meaning 'to extinguish'.

mass extinction

A significant and rapid decrease in the biodiversity on Earth, often due to catastrophic events.

functionally extinct

When a species is so low in numbers that it no longer plays a significant role in its ecosystem.

extinction event

A widespread and rapid decrease in the biodiversity on Earth, typically characterized by a significant loss of species.

extinct

Describes a species that no longer exists.

extinguish

To cause something to cease to be, such as a fire or light.

Dead as a doornail

When I looked at that old tech, I thought it's dead as a doornail.

Gone for good

After that last incident, he was gone for good.