# eradication

/ɪˌɹædəˈkeɪʃən/ (US) · /ɪɹˌædɪkˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. complete removal

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Formal

the act of completely getting rid of something unwanted, like a disease or poverty.

For teachers: the complete destruction or elimination of something, particularly in a medical or social context. Uncountable in general use, though specific instances may be countable.

- The global eradication of smallpox is one of the greatest successes in medicine.
- Public health officials remain committed to the total eradication of polio, despite the logistical challenges posed by conflict zones.

Usage: Often followed by the preposition 'of' to indicate the target being removed.

## Examples

- The eradication of smallpox is a major medical success.
- Public health officials are working toward the global eradication of polio through mass vaccination programs.
- The total eradication of invasive species from the island required years of meticulous monitoring and the implementation of strict biosecurity protocols to prevent reintroduction.

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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.