extinction

ex·tinc·tion

noun \ik-ˈstiŋ(k)-shən\

Definition of EXTINCTION

1

: the act of making extinct or causing to be extinguished

2

: the condition or fact of being extinct or extinguished; also : the process of becoming extinct <extinction of a species>

3

: the process of eliminating or reducing a conditioned response by not reinforcing it

Examples of EXTINCTION

1. the extinction of all life in the region
2. the extinction of many old traditions
3. Mass extinctions of prehistoric animals are known to have occurred.

First Known Use of EXTINCTION

15th century

Related to EXTINCTION

Synonyms: annihilation, decimation, demolishment, demolition, desolation, devastation, extermination, destruction, havoc, loss, mincemeat, obliteration, ruin, ruination, wastage, wreckage

Antonyms: building, construction, erection, raising

Related Words: depredation, despoilment, despoliation; breakup, collapse, disintegration, dissolution; assassination, execution, killing, massacre, slaughter; dismantlement, effacement, eradication

Near Antonyms: rescue, salvage, salvation, saving; conservation, preservation, protection; reclamation, reconstruction, re-creation, refurbishment, regeneracy, remodeling, renovation, restoration

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