extinction Definition
- 1the state or process of a species, family, or larger group being or becoming extinct
- 2the complete destruction of something
Using extinction: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "extinction" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The extinction of the dinosaurs occurred millions of years ago.
Example
The extinction of certain species is caused by human activity.
Example
The extinction of the company was due to poor management.
extinction Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for extinction
Antonyms for extinction
Phrases with extinction
a widespread and rapid decrease in the biodiversity on Earth
Example
The last mass extinction occurred about 66 million years ago, when the dinosaurs disappeared.
a significant decrease in the number of species on Earth, often caused by natural disasters or climate change
Example
The Permian-Triassic extinction event, which occurred about 252 million years ago, was the most severe extinction event in Earth's history.
when a species' population has declined to a point where it no longer plays a significant role in its ecosystem
Example
The functional extinction of bees would have a devastating impact on agriculture and food production.
Origins of extinction
from Latin 'extinctio', meaning 'a wiping out'
Summary: extinction in Brief
The term 'extinction' [ɪkˈstɪŋkʃən] refers to the state or process of a species, family, or larger group being or becoming extinct. It can also mean the complete destruction of something. Examples include the extinction of the dinosaurs and certain species due to human activity. Phrases like 'mass extinction' and 'extinction event' denote significant decreases in biodiversity, while 'functional extinction' describes a species' population declining to a point where it no longer plays a significant role in its ecosystem.
