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Exterminated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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exterminated

[ษชkหˆstษœหrmษชneษชtษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

destruction of

To exterminate means to completely destroy or erase something, often associated with the eradication of pests, diseases, or even populations in a metaphorical or historical context. The term is frequently used in discussions about pest control, genocide, or any situation where total elimination is intended. It conveys a sense of thoroughness in the act of destruction and is usually considered to carry negative connotations due to its association with violence and extinction.

Synonyms

annihilate, eliminate, eradicate, obliterate.

Examples of usage

  • The company hired an expert to exterminate the termites in the old building.
  • During the war, there were efforts to exterminate the enemy forces.
  • The pesticides are designed to exterminate harmful insects without affecting pets.
  • The organization aims to exterminate the invasive species threatening local wildlife.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Extermination practices have been used throughout history in warfare, often leading to significant humanitarian crises.
  • The Holocaust during World War II is one of the most horrific examples of extermination where millions were systematically killed.
  • In the 19th century, extermination was used in colonial contexts, where native populations were driven away or annihilated.

Pop Culture

  • The term gained popularity in the title of the famous Doctor Who villain, the Daleks, known for their catchphrase 'Exterminate!'.
  • In science fiction, extermination often pertains to themes of survival and conflict between species.
  • Movies like 'Hotel Rwanda' and 'Schindlerโ€™s List' explore the consequences of extermination in a historical context.

Science

  • In pest control, extermination refers to the complete removal of unwanted insects or vermin.
  • The term is closely associated with ecology, where some species can be considered invasive and may need to be exterminated to protect native ecosystems.
  • Extermination can also refer to managing biological threats, for instance, in controlling diseases carried by pests.

Ethics

  • The concept raises ethical questions regarding the minimum moral principles for actions that lead to exterminating a group or species.
  • Discussions about extermination often include the implications of ecological balance and the responsibility of humanity towards protecting biodiversity.
  • It highlights the tension between human needs and the survival of other species, raising complex moral dilemmas.

Origin of 'exterminated'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'exterminare', meaning to 'drive out' or 'remove'.
  • It combines 'ex-', meaning 'out', and 'terminare', meaning 'to limit or bound'.
  • The term has evolved in usage from its original meaning related to boundaries to imply total destruction.

The word 'exterminate' originates from the Latin 'exterminare', which means 'to drive out' or 'to expel'. This Latin term is composed of the prefix 'ex-', meaning 'out', and 'terminare', meaning 'to limit or end'. The use of 'exterminate' in English has been prevalent since the late 15th century, initially relating to the concept of driving out elements considered undesirable or harmful. Over the centuries, the term has taken on darker connotations, especially in relation to the Holocaust and other genocides, where it was used to describe the systematic killing of entire populations. Its usage in pest control has also popularized the term in discussions about extermination of insects and other pests that threaten human habitations or agriculture. Today, the term is often employed in both literal and figurative contexts, reflecting its evolution in the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,175, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.