Dictionary Home »
Dictionary Definitions » extinct
extinct
The definition of extinct is someone or something that has burned out, is no longer in use or no longer exists.
(adjective)- An example of extinct is a volcano that is no longer erupting.
- An example of extinct is an old marriage custom in an African tribe.
- An example of extinct is dinosaurs.
YourDictionary definition and usage example. Copyright © 2013 by LoveToKnow Corp.
See extinct in Webster's New World College Dictionary
adjective
- having died down or burned out; extinguished: an extinct fire
- no longer active: an extinct volcano
- no longer in existence or use; specif., having no living descendant: an extinct species
- that no living person holds or can claim: said of offices, titles, etc.
- no longer spoken as a native language
Origin: ME < L extinctus, exstinctus, pp. of exstinguere: see extinguish
See extinct in American Heritage Dictionary 4
adjective
- No longer existing or living: an extinct species.
- No longer burning or active: an extinct volcano.
- No longer in use: an extinct custom. See Synonyms at dead.
- Law Lacking a claimant; void: an extinct title.
Origin:
Origin: Middle English
Origin: , from Latin exstīnctus
Origin: , past participle of exstinguere, to extinguish; see extinguish
.Learn more about extinct
Related Articles
