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.
Elite controllers’ immune systems were likely able to kill off the cells in which the virus had integrated itself into parts of the genome to multiply. — Diana Kwon, Vox, 11 Nov. 2026 The Avs killed off a penalty and appeared poised to get to the second intermission with a two-goal advantage, but Leafs forward Easton Cowan snuck one through Blackwood by the near post. — Corey Masisak, Denver Post, 10 Nov. 2026 Lest that kill off the family business, Jeremiah makes amends by signing up as a British Army redcoat under Lord Balfour’s command. — Dennis Harvey, Variety, 6 Nov. 2026 So David decided to follow in the footsteps of Cinderella and Snow White and pretty much every Disney movie and Grimm fairy tale ever — and killed off Buddy’s mom. — Andy Richter With Aaron Karo, HollywoodReporter, 3 Nov. 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 14 Nov. 2026.

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