Synonyms of extinction

extinction

noun

ik-ˈstiŋ(k)-shən 

as in destruction

the state or fact of being rendered nonexistent, physically unsound, or useless

the state's population of moose has been replenished, having once been hunted almost to extinction

Synonyms & Similar Words

• destruction
• devastation
• havoc
• loss
• demolition
• extermination
• annihilation
• obliteration
• decimation
• ruination
• wastage
• ruin
• wreckage
• collapse
• demolishment
• desolation
• mincemeat
• disintegration
• depredation
• slaughter
• dissolution
• breakup
• massacre
• execution
• despoliation
• killing
• assassination
• despoilment
• eradication
• dismantlement
• effacement

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• building
• construction
• saving
• salvation
• raising
• erection
• rescue
• conservation
• preservation
• protection
• salvage
• restoration
• reclamation
• reconstruction
• remodeling
• renovation
• re-creation
• refurbishment
• regeneracy

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of extinction

The project will provide support to help recover 100 species facing imminent extinction. — Chris Gardner For The Hollywood Reporter, Robb Report, 4 Aug. 2026

Environmental organizations have decried the change as a complete gutting that will rapidly accelerate extinctions, and have sued in federal court. — Lizzie Kane, Sacbee.com, 31 July 2026

The film combines animation with live-action footage to explore an unprecedented 1979 legal dispute that saw the rare Palila bird native to Hawaii sue the state to prevent its extinction amidst threats of climate change and fire. — Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 31 July 2026

Paramount faces an extinction-level event if the court rules against it, as a $7 billion regulatory termination fee would be extracted if the deal entirely collapses. — Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 31 July 2026