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Extinguishing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ฅ
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extinguishing

[ษชkหˆstษชล‹ษกwษชสƒษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

putting out

Extinguishing refers to the act of putting out a fire or light. It can also mean to bring something to an end or to eliminate something. This term is commonly used in both firefighting and metaphorical contexts.

Synonyms

eliminating, putting out, quenching, suppressing, terminating.

Examples of usage

  • The firefighters were extinguishing the flames.
  • He extinguished the candle before leaving the room.
  • The legislation aims at extinguishing harmful practices.
  • She extinguished her doubts and decided to proceed.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Fire is extinguished by removing one of the three components of the fire triangle: heat, fuel, or oxygen.
  • Water is effective in cooling down flames, but for grease fires, using baking soda is much safer to prevent flare-ups.
  • Certain chemicals used in fire extinguishers work by interrupting the chemical reaction occurring in flames.

Safety

  • Proper training is essential for using a fire extinguisher; many people overlook this vital safety aspect.
  • Extinguishing fires in crowded places, like buildings, must follow safety protocols to ensure everyone's safety.
  • Knowing the type of fire you're dealing with (like electrical vs. flammable liquids) is crucial for using the correct extinguishing method.

Cultural Significance

  • Many rituals across cultures involve 'extinguishing' fire as a symbol of purification or change.
  • In some traditions, extinguishing household lights can signify the end of a day or a time for reflection.
  • Candle lighting and extinguishing are often part of ceremonies, with the act representing hope and enlightenment.

Literature

  • In literature, extinguishing flames can symbolize loss, end of passion, or the resolution of conflict.
  • Many authors use imagery of extinguishing light to evoke themes of despair or the end of hope.
  • Famous works often feature characters extinguishing their candles or fires to signify moments of deep emotional change.

Origin of 'extinguishing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'extinguere,' which means 'to put out' or 'to quench'.
  • In medieval Latin, it was used in the context of snuffing out a candle flame.
  • The prefix 'ex-' means 'out' or 'away,' while '-stinguish' is related to the idea of 'extinguishing' a fire or light.

The word 'extinguish' comes from the Latin 'extinguere', which comprises 'ex-' meaning 'out' and 'stinguere' meaning 'to quench' or 'to put out'. The term evolved in the Middle English period, emerging in the 14th century. Initially used in the context of extinguishing fires, it gradually expanded to include the broader sense of putting an end to something. Over time, its usage has spanned from physical applications, such as putting out flames, to more abstract uses, like extinguishing hope or extinguishing rights, reflecting its versatile nature in the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,933, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.