Extirpated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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extirpated

[หˆษ›kstษ™rหŒpeษชtษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

wildlife conservation

To remove or destroy completely, especially a population or species. Extirpated species are those that have been completely eradicated from a certain area or region due to human activity or environmental changes.

Synonyms

eliminate, eradicate, exterminate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
extirpated

Used typically in a formal or scientific context to describe the complete removal or destruction of something, especially in a biological or medical setting.

  • The invasive species was successfully extirpated from the habitat
  • The tumor was extirpated during the surgery
eradicate

Often used to indicate complete destruction, usually regarding diseases, pests, or problematic issues. It carries a strong connotation of thorough and permanent removal.

  • Efforts to eradicate malaria have been ongoing for decades
  • The government is working to eradicate corruption
eliminate

Commonly used in everyday language to indicate the removal or getting rid of something, whether it's a problem, a risk, or an item.

  • We need to eliminate all unnecessary expenses from our budget
  • The player was eliminated from the competition
exterminate

Used in typically more severe contexts involving the killing or destruction of living beings, often pests or in situations with a negative connotation.

  • Pest control was called to exterminate the termite infestation
  • The invading army tried to exterminate the local population, which has a very negative connotation

Examples of usage

  • The wolves were extirpated from the state decades ago.
  • The conservation efforts aim to prevent any more species from being extirpated.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Ecology

  • Certain species can be extirpated from specific areas, leading to local extinction but not overall extinction.
  • Humans have been responsible for the extirpation of various species through habitat destruction and pollution.

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, extirpation can refer to the eradication of certain rights or privileges.
  • Courts may extirpate actions deemed harmful or illegal, enforcing laws to protect society.

Public Health

  • Extirpation of diseases is a goal for public health initiatives aimed at eliminating infections, like smallpox.
  • The term is used in the context of eradicating harmful agents, whether biological or environmental.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers discuss the extirpation of negative thoughts for personal growth and mental well-being.
  • Some believe that extirpating certain societal norms can lead to positive change and progress.

Origin of 'extirpated'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'extirpatus', meaning 'uprooted' or 'destroyed'.
  • It is formed from 'ex-' (out of) and 'stirps' (roots), highlighting the idea of pulling something out by its roots.

The word 'extirpate' comes from the Latin word 'extirpare', meaning 'to root out'. It was first used in English in the mid-16th century. The term is commonly used in the context of wildlife conservation to describe the complete removal or eradication of a population or species from a specific area.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,693, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.