English Lexicon

Exterminate

/ɪkˈstɜːrmɪneɪt/
verbCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #2500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As verb
  1. 1

    To destroy completely; to eliminate or eradicate.

    "The pest control service was called to exterminate the infestation in the house."
  2. 2

    To kill off a species or group entirely.

    "The invasive species threatened to exterminate the native wildlife."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'exterminate' originates from the Latin 'exterminare', which means 'to drive out' or 'to remove'. It evolved through Middle English, reflecting a shift in meaning towards complete destruction or eradication, particularly in relation to pests or undesirable entities.

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