extinction

/ɪkˈstɪŋkʃən/
noun
  1. The state or process of a species, family, or larger group having no living members; the end of a type of organism.
    • Conservation efforts aim to prevent the extinction of endangered animals.
    • The extinction of the dinosaurs happened about 66 million years ago.
    • Many species face extinction due to habitat destruction.
  2. The act of making something stop burning or shining; the state of being extinguished.
    • The extinction of the candle left the room in darkness.
    • The firefighter worked quickly to ensure the extinction of the flames.
    • After the extinction of the campfire, we could see the stars clearly.
  3. The end or disappearance of something (e.g., a custom, language, or practice).
    • The extinction of handwritten letters has changed how we communicate.
    • The extinction of the ancient language was a great cultural loss.
    • With the extinction of the tradition, younger generations lost touch with their heritage.