Extinct: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a species, group, or family that no longer has any living members.

• Dinosaurs have been extinct for millions of years
• The Dodo bird is an example of an extinct species

Refers to the sudden and complete disappearance of something without a trace.

• The ship vanished without a trace during the storm
• The treasure hunters searched for the vanished city

Typically used in ecological contexts to describe a species that has been completely removed or destroyed from a particular geographic area, although it may exist elsewhere.

• Wolves have been extirpated from many areas in Europe
• The tiger was extirpated from the region due to habitat destruction and poaching

Used in a broad sense to describe something that is no longer possessed, found, or no longer exists in a certain context.

• Many ancient artifacts have been lost to history
• The culture of that ancient civilization is largely lost

Use this word when referring to something that no longer exists, particularly species of plants or animals.

• The dodo bird is an extinct species.
• Many scientists are working to prevent endangered animals from becoming extinct.

This word is appropriate when describing something that is temporarily inactive or in a state of rest, often used for volcanoes, plants, or projects.

• The volcano has been dormant for over a century.
• During the winter, many plants go dormant.

This word is used to describe something not currently in use, function, or operation. It's often used for people, machinery, or memberships.

• He has been inactive in the club for the past year.
• The factory remained inactive due to the power outage.

Used when referring to a species, family, or larger group having no living members. This term typically applies to animals, plants, or cultural practices.

• Dinosaurs became extinct approximately 65 million years ago.
• The dodo is an extinct bird.

Used when referring to something that was once alive but is no longer. It can refer to humans, animals, and metaphorically to objects or ideas.

• The old oak tree in our backyard is dead.
• He found a dead mouse in the attic.

Used when referring to something that is no longer possessed, has gone missing, or is no longer known. It can refer to objects, people, ideas, or even metaphorically to opportunities.

• She lost her favorite necklace at the beach.
• The sailors were lost at sea for days.