kill off

verb

killed off; killing off; kills off
Synonyms of kill offnext

transitive verb

: to destroy in large numbers or totally

Examples of kill off in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Allergy season typically lasts until all pollen production is killed off by the first freeze of autumn. Hali Smith march 10, Idaho Statesman, 10 Mar. 2026 Trump, Scaramucci said, has been frustrated by his Israeli partners—who have killed off so many senior Iranian figures that Washington is running out of counterparts to negotiate with. Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 9 Mar. 2026 Rosemount goaltender Sam Clements made four crucial saves to not only kill off the final minute of a penalty but also keep it tied early in the third period. Andrew Cornelius, Twin Cities, 5 Mar. 2026 Healthcare for all or just keep Republicans from killing off Obamacare? Los Angeles Times, 5 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for kill off

Word History

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of kill off was in 1607

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Cite this Entry

“Kill off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kill%20off. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

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