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extirpate

verb

/ˈfræntɪk/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of extirpate

To completely remove or eradicate something, often a plant or animal species, a disease, or a social problem.
"The surgeon needed to extirpate the tumor to prevent it from spreading."

Detailed meaning of extirpate

It implies a thorough and systematic effort to eliminate or destroy something completely, often using force or other extreme measures. When applied to the natural world, the term "extirpate" suggests a deliberate effort to eliminate a species or population, often for reasons related to human economic or political interests. When applied to social or political issues, it can suggest a concerted effort to root out and eliminate a problem or source of conflict, such as corruption or injustice. Overall, the term "extirpate" implies a determined and forceful effort to remove or destroy something completely, often with the intention of improving or restoring a particular system or environment.

Example sentences containing extirpate

1. The government's plan to extirpate corruption from the system was met with skepticism.
2. The invasive plant species needed to be extirpated from the forest to restore the ecosystem.
3. The pest control company was hired to extirpate the termite infestation in the house.
4. The city council voted to extirpate the dangerous intersection by building a roundabout.
5. The farmer had to extirpate the diseased plants to protect the rest of the crop.
6. The archaeologists were careful not to extirpate any artifacts during the excavation process.

History and etymology of extirpate

The verb 'extirpate' finds its origins in Latin, with its root in the word 'extirpare.' In Latin, 'ex' signifies 'out' or 'completely,' and 'stirps' means 'stock' or 'root.' Consequently, 'extirpare' originally meant to root out or uproot something entirely, often referring to removing a plant by its roots. Over time, the term expanded in meaning to encompass the complete removal or eradication of various entities, including plant or animal species, diseases, or social problems. The etymology of 'extirpate' thus encapsulates the idea of thorough and deliberate removal, emphasizing the notion of uprooting or eliminating something entirely from its source or existence.

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Further usage examples of extirpate

1. The company had to extirpate the defective products from the market to avoid a recall.
2. The environmental group fought to extirpate the use of plastic bags.
3. The police worked to extirpate the drug trafficking operation in the city.
4. The dentist had to extirpate the infected tooth to prevent further damage.
5. The government used military force to extirpate the rebel group from the country.
6. Conservationists aim to extirpate invasive species from ecosystems.
7. The disease had to be extirpated to prevent further outbreaks.
8. Efforts to extirpate poverty require multifaceted strategies.
9. The government launched a campaign to extirpate corruption.
10. Native plants were extirpated by the invasive species.
11. The organization's mission is to extirpate illiteracy.
12. Hunters played a role in extirpating the local wolf population.
13. The virus was finally extirpated through vaccination.
14. The team worked tirelessly to extirpate the computer virus.
15. Conservationists strive to extirpate illegal poaching.
16. The invasive species threatened to extirpate native flora.
17. The organization's goal is to extirpate child labor.
18. Community efforts can help extirpate drug addiction.
19. The regime sought to extirpate political dissent.
20. The disease was extirpated through public health measures.
21. Conservationists aim to extirpate the illegal wildlife trade.
22. The task force was assigned to extirpate gang violence.
23. Invasive species can extirpate indigenous animal populations.
24. The campaign's objective is to extirpate racial discrimination.
25. The military's mission is to extirpate terrorist cells.
26. The nonprofit organization seeks to extirpate hunger.
27. The regime used brutal methods to extirpate opposition.
28. Conservationists work to extirpate habitat destruction.
29. The program aims to extirpate substance abuse.
30. The community rallied to extirpate homelessness.