Extermination: meaning, definitions and examples

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extermination

[ ɪkˌstɜːrmɪˈneɪʃən ]

^{Context #1}

warfare

The act of completely destroying or eliminating something, especially through a systematic and widespread approach. It often refers to the eradication of a particular group of people, animals, or things.

Synonyms

annihilation, destruction, eradication

Examples of usage

The extermination of the opposing army was ruthless and relentless.
The extermination of certain species of wildlife has led to imbalances in the ecosystem.
The extermination of Jews during the Holocaust remains a dark chapter in human history.

^{Context #2}

pest control

The process of getting rid of pests or vermin, such as insects or rodents, usually in a targeted and systematic manner to prevent their proliferation.

Synonyms

elimination, eradication, exterminator

Examples of usage

The extermination of cockroaches in the kitchen required professional pest control services.
The extermination of termites saved the wooden structure of the house from further damage.

^{Context #3}

science fiction

A futuristic concept often depicted in science fiction literature or movies, involving the complete destruction of a species or civilization by advanced technology or alien forces.

Synonyms

annihilation, destruction, obliteration

Examples of usage

The movie portrayed the extermination of humanity by alien invaders.
The novel explored the ethical implications of weaponized technology leading to the extermination of entire planets.

Translations

Translations of the word "extermination" in other languages:

🇵🇹 extermínio

🇮🇳 नाश

🇩🇪 Ausrottung

🇮🇩 pembasmian

🇺🇦 знищення

🇵🇱 wytępienie

🇯🇵 絶滅 (ぜつめつ)

🇫🇷 extermination

🇪🇸 exterminio

🇹🇷 yok etme

🇰🇷 근절 (geunjeol)

🇸🇦 إبادة (ibādah)

🇨🇿 vyhlazení

🇸🇰 vyhubenie

🇨🇳 灭绝 (mièjué)

🇸🇮 iztrebljenje

🇮🇸 útrýming

🇰🇿 жою

🇬🇪 განადგურება

🇦🇿 məhv etmə

🇲🇽 exterminio

Word origin

The word 'extermination' originated from the Latin word 'exterminare', which means 'to drive out' or 'to destroy utterly'. The concept of extermination has been prevalent throughout history, often associated with wars, genocides, and pest control. The term gained prominence during the Holocaust, referring to the systematic killing of millions of Jews by the Nazis. In modern usage, 'extermination' is often linked to the eradication of pests or the complete destruction of a species or civilization.