Annihilation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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annihilation
[ษหnสษชษหleษชส(ษ)n ]
Definitions
destruction
The act of completely destroying or defeating someone or something.
Synonyms
destruction, extermination, obliteration.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
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| destruction |
This is a more general term and can be used in everyday language to describe severe damage or ruination.
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| 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.
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| obliteration |
Often used to describe something being completely wiped out or erased from existence. It can imply thorough and forceful removal.
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Examples of usage
- The annihilation of the enemy forces was swift and decisive.
- The nuclear bomb caused widespread annihilation in the city.
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?
| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| energy release |
Typically used in scientific and technical contexts to describe the release of energy from a process, often in physics, chemistry, or engineering.
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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.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'annihilation'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'annihilation' comes from the Latin word 'annihilatio', which means 'reduction to nothing'. The concept of annihilation has been present in various contexts throughout history, from military conquests to scientific theories. In physics, annihilation refers to the process of converting matter into energy, as described by Einstein's famous equation E=mc^2. The term has also been used metaphorically to describe complete destruction or defeat.