become extinct; die out; vanish
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesverb
to become extinct; to die out; to vanish completely
Primarily used for species, lineages, languages, or traditions that completely disappear. Often used in biological and ecological contexts. Can be used both intransitively (species becoming extinct) and transitively (humans causing extinction).
Dinosaurs became extinct sixty-five million years ago.
Due to overhunting, this animal is already on the verge of extinction.
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If protection is not provided, this ancient craft will soon die out.
Human activity is causing many species to accelerate toward extinction.
verb
to exterminate; to eradicate; to wipe out completely
formalUsed transitively to describe the action of causing something to become extinct. Often used in formal or technical contexts regarding pest control, genocide, or complete eradication.
Measures must be taken to exterminate these pests.
This virus has already been eradicated by humans.