extermination
|ex/ter/mi/na/tion|
C1
🇺🇸
/ɪkˌstɜːrmɪˈneɪʃən/
🇬🇧
/ɪkˌstɜːmɪˈneɪʃən/
(exterminate)
complete destruction
Etymology
Etymology Information
'extermination' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'exterminare,' where 'ex-' meant 'out of' and 'terminare' meant 'to end.'
Historical Evolution
'exterminare' transformed into the French word 'exterminer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'extermination' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to drive out or banish,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'destroying completely.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of destroying or getting rid of completely.
The extermination of pests is crucial for maintaining a healthy garden.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35