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Annihilation: meaning, definitions and examples

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annihilation

 

[əˌnʌɪəˈleɪʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

destruction

The act of completely destroying or defeating someone or something.

Synonyms

destruction, extermination, obliteration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
annihilation

Use this word in formal or scientific contexts to describe the total and complete destruction of something, typically on a large scale.

  • The annihilation of the city left nothing but rubble and ashes.
  • Theoretical physicists often discuss matter and antimatter annihilation.
destruction

This is a more general term and can be used in everyday language to describe severe damage or ruination.

  • The construction work caused a great deal of destruction to the old buildings.
  • The storm's destruction was evident throughout the town.
extermination

This word is typically used when referring to the complete elimination of living beings, particularly pests or groups of people. It often carries a negative connotation.

  • Pest control companies specialize in the extermination of rodents and insects.
  • The historical account of the extermination of native tribes is tragic.
obliteration

Often used to describe something being completely wiped out or erased from existence. It can imply thorough and forceful removal.

  • The bomb obliterated the entire neighborhood.
  • Over time, the ancient writings have been obliterated by weather and decay.

Examples of usage

  • The annihilation of the enemy forces was swift and decisive.
  • The nuclear bomb caused widespread annihilation in the city.
Context #2 | Noun

Physics

The conversion of matter into energy, especially the mutual conversion of a particle and an antiparticle.

Synonyms

conversion, energy release, transformation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
annihilation

Used primarily in scientific contexts, particularly in physics, to describe the process in which a particle and its antiparticle collide and destroy each other, releasing energy.

  • The annihilation of the electron and positron resulted in a burst of gamma rays
conversion

Refers to a general change from one form or state to another. It is common in various fields such as religion, mechanics, finance, etc.

  • Her conversion to a more sustainable lifestyle was inspiring to her friends
  • The conversion of the old warehouse into a modern office space was impressive
transformation

Indicates a significant change in form, appearance, or character. It is broadly used in everyday language as well as in scientific and technical contexts.

  • The caterpillar’s transformation into a butterfly is a marvel of nature
  • The city's transformation over the past decade has been remarkable
energy release

Typically used in scientific and technical contexts to describe the release of energy from a process, often in physics, chemistry, or engineering.

  • The energy release during the chemical reaction was measured in kilojoules
  • The earthquake caused a massive energy release, shaking the entire region

Examples of usage

  • The annihilation of the particles resulted in the release of a large amount of energy.
  • Einstein's famous equation E=mc^2 describes the process of annihilation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'annihilatio', which means 'to make worthless' or 'to reduce to nothing'.
  • In Latin, 'nihil' means 'nothing', highlighting the concept of bringing something to nonexistence.

Science

  • In physics, annihilation occurs when matter meets its antimatter counterpart, releasing energy, like a tiny explosion.
  • The phenomenon is crucial in particle physics and has practical applications in medical imaging techniques, such as PET scans.

Literature

  • The theme of annihilation appears in various classic works, exploring the destruction of worlds or civilizations.
  • Authors like H.P. Lovecraft often used the concept of annihilation to create horror, depicting the end of human understanding.

Philosophy

  • Philosophical discussions often involve the idea of annihilation relative to existence, questioning what it means to be.
  • Some philosophies argue that true annihilation is impossible, as energy can neither be created nor destroyed, only transformed.

Pop Culture

  • The term has been popularized in movies like 'Annihilation' (2018), which explores themes of transformation and identity.
  • Video games often incorporate annihilation mechanics, where players can eliminate enemies or resources to achieve objectives.

Translations

Translations of the word "annihilation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aniquilação

🇮🇳 विनाश

🇩🇪 Vernichtung

🇮🇩 pembinasaan

🇺🇦 знищення

🇵🇱 unicestwienie

🇯🇵 消滅

🇫🇷 anéantissement

🇪🇸 aniquilación

🇹🇷 yok etme

🇰🇷 전멸

🇸🇦 إبادة

🇨🇿 zničení

🇸🇰 zničenie

🇨🇳 湮灭

🇸🇮 uničenje

🇮🇸 útrýming

🇰🇿 жою

🇬🇪 განადგურება

🇦🇿 məhv

🇲🇽 aniquilación

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,320, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.