kill off

verb

killed off; killing off; kills off

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.
As the show exploded in popularity, the cast expanded to include new kids played by Sadie Sink and Priah Ferguson (in Season 2), and a new teen played by Maya Hawke (in Season 3) — as well as a few other characters who, by and large, were killed off along the way. Kate Aurthur, Variety, 13 Nov. 2025 However, several key characters were killed off in season 1 — including Colin, Carrie and Peter — meaning Ellis, Lillis and Lacy's returns would be unlikely, unless they were featured in the form of flashbacks. Jordana Comiter, PEOPLE, 12 Nov. 2025 Wash and dry sturdier clothing in high heat to kill off any potential larvae. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 31 Oct. 2025 Joining her are other returning stars including some who were previously believed to be killed off, like David Arquette, Matthew Lillard and Scott Foley. Lisa Respers France, CNN Money, 30 Oct. 2025 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 15 Nov. 2025.

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