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Extinct Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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extinct

[ษชkหˆstษชล‹kt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

animal

No longer in existence; having died out.

Synonyms

extirpated, lost, vanished.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
extinct

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
vanished

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
extirpated

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
lost

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

Examples of usage

  • Dinosaurs are extinct animals.
  • The dodo bird is an extinct species.
Context #2 | Adjective

volcano

Of a volcano having no recorded eruptions.

Synonyms

dormant, inactive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
extinct

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.
dormant

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.
inactive

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.

Examples of usage

  • The volcano is considered extinct as it has not erupted for centuries.
Context #3 | Noun

language

No longer spoken or in use.

Synonyms

dead, lost.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
extinct

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.
dead

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.
lost

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.

Examples of usage

  • Latin is an extinct language.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • The process of extinction can happen naturally or be caused by human activity, like habitat destruction.
  • Some scientists estimate that approximately 99% of all species that have ever existed are now extinct.
  • Mass extinctions throughout Earthโ€™s history, such as the one that eliminated the dinosaurs 65 million years ago, have greatly changed the planet's biodiversity.

Environmental Impact

  • Extinction can disrupt entire ecosystems, leading to changes in the food chain and affecting other species' survival.
  • Endangered species have a risk of becoming extinct, which motivates conservation efforts to protect them.

Cultural Representation

  • Extinction is a theme in art and literature, often symbolizing loss or the impact of humanity on nature.
  • Movies and books often depict extinct creatures, like dinosaurs, capturing public imagination and highlighting the wonders of nature.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'extinction event' has gained popularity, especially in discussions about climate change and its potential impact on future life.
  • Popular movies and documentaries explore extinct species, contributing to public awareness of environmental issues.

Origin of 'extinct'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'extinctus,' which means 'to extinguish' or 'to put out,' as in a fire being put out.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, being used to describe species that have disappeared.

The word 'extinct' originated from the Latin word 'extinctus', the past participle of 'exstinguere', meaning 'to quench' or 'to extinguish'. It was first used in English in the early 17th century to describe something that has died out or no longer exists. The term became particularly associated with extinct species in the field of biology and paleontology.

See also: extinction.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,307 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.