# deletion

/dɪˈɫiʃən/ (US) · /dɪlˈiːʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/deletion
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. removing data or text

noun · CEFR B2

the act of removing a piece of writing, a computer file, or information.

For teachers: the act of erasing or removing recorded information, digital files, or written passages.

- The accidental deletion of the report caused a lot of stress for the team.
- The editor recommended the deletion of the final two paragraphs to ensure the article remained within the word count limit.

### 2. genetic removal

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a change in a living thing where a part of its DNA is missing.

For teachers: a type of chromosomal mutation in which a DNA sequence or a segment of a chromosome is lost during DNA replication.

- The scientists studied a specific genetic deletion that caused the rare disease.
- A micro-deletion on the long arm of chromosome 15 is responsible for the specific phenotypic traits observed in this patient group.

### 3. killing

noun · CEFR C2 · Slang

a slang way to talk about killing someone.

For teachers: a euphemistic or slang term for murder or assassination, often used in digital or gaming subcultures.

- In the video game, the character's deletion was sudden and unexpected.
- The term 'deletion' has emerged in certain online forums as a coded reference to the targeted elimination of political rivals.

## Examples

- The editor suggested the deletion of the last paragraph.
- Accidental deletion of important system files can cause your computer to stop working correctly.
- The final version of the manuscript underwent several significant deletions to ensure the narrative remained focused and the pacing stayed brisk for the reader.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.