Definition

A person or thing that ends or stops something, often used in contexts like science or technology.

Example

In the movie, the terminator was sent back in time to prevent a future disaster.

Conversation

Did you see that documentary about the moon last night?

Yeah, it was fascinating, especially the part about the terminator.

I never knew the terminator was the line between light and dark on the moon's surface.

Me neither! It made me want to look at the moon more closely.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Terminator → It is formed from "terminus" (from Latin, meaning boundary or end) and the suffix "-ator" (meaning one who or that which). The word "terminator" refers to one who brings something to an end or a boundary.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'boundary' ('terminus') and someone or something that 'brings' that boundary into effect ('-ator'). This helps you remember that a terminator is something that brings an end.

Visually Confused Words