Extirpate

Verb

Definition: To destroy or remove completely; to exterminate.

Synonyms: Eradicate, Eliminate, Abolish, Annihilate

Antonyms: Establish, Preserve, Plant, Cultivate

Examples:
  • The government launched a campaign to extirpate corruption from the country.
  • The invasive species needs to be extirpated in order to protect the local ecosystem.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of "extirpate" as "extreme eradication".

Etymology:

Origin:

Late 16th century from Latin 'extirpare', from 'ex-' (out) + 'stirps' (root, stump)

Historical Usage:

The term has been used since the late 16th century and has maintained its meaning throughout history.

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