Definition

To completely remove or destroy something, often by pulling it out from the roots or eliminating it entirely.

Example

The invasive species was extirpated from the region to protect the native plants.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard they are trying to extirpate the invasive plants in the park.

That sounds like a good idea; they’re ruining the native ecosystem.

Yeah, I hope they can extirpate them before it gets worse.

Definitely, or else we'll lose a lot of the local wildlife.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Extirpate → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out) and "stirpare" (meaning to root up). The word means to root out or completely remove something from its source.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing something completely from its roots' — 'ex-' means out, and 'stirpare' means to root up.

Visually Confused Words