termination

noun

ter·​mi·​na·​tion ˌtər-mə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce termination (audio)
1
: end in time or existence : conclusion
the termination of life
2
: the last part of a word
especially : an inflectional ending
3
: the act of terminating
4
: a limit in space or extent : bound
5
terminational adjective

Examples of termination in a Sentence

The law protects against unfair contract termination. the termination of a lease an early termination of the contract The company noted over 300 terminations last quarter. Are there plans for the termination of unproductive employees?
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.
The data termination was postponed until July 31 following a request from the head of NASA’s Earth Science Division. Chris Vagasky, Space.com, 27 July 2025 The termination of the lease was expected to save taxpayers $308,951, according to DOGE. John Moritz, Hartford Courant, 26 July 2025 These terminations are being justified under new policies from the Department of Health and Human Services and the NIH that forbid references to diversity, equity and inclusion. Timothy Holtz, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 July 2025 There was no indication in any of the termination letters employees received that performance was a factor; in fact, NPR verified that many of them recently received outstanding performance reviews. Tom Bowman, NPR, 24 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for termination

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 5

Time Traveler
The first known use of termination was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Termination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/termination. Accessed 1 Aug. 2025.

Medical Definition

termination

noun
ter·​mi·​na·​tion ˌtər-mə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce termination (audio)
: an end or ending of something
especially : a distal end of an anatomical part

More from Merriam-Webster on termination

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