# extermination

/ɪkˌstɝməˈneɪʃən/ (US) · /ɛkstˈɜːmɪnˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. killing pests or animals

noun · CEFR B2

the act of killing all the insects or small animals that are causing a problem in a place.

For teachers: the total eradication of a population of pests or vermin within a specific environment.

- The landlord ordered the extermination of the rats in the basement.
- The city council implemented a rigorous program for the extermination of invasive species that were threatening the local ecosystem.

Usage: Often used in the context of pest control or environmental management.

### 2. total destruction of a group

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

the killing of a large group of people, especially during a war or by a government.

For teachers: the systematic and total destruction of a group of people; frequently used in historical and political discourse regarding genocide.

- The museum was built to remember those who suffered during the campaign of extermination.
- Historians documented the systematic extermination of the indigenous population during the colonial expansion into the interior.

Teaching tip: This is a very heavy, serious word. When applied to humans, it implies a lack of humanity and is often associated with war crimes.

## Examples

- The city started a program for the extermination of rats in the sewers.
- The invasive species faced total extermination after the government introduced a targeted biological control agent to the island.
- Historians documented the systematic extermination of the local population, detailing the bureaucratic efficiency with which the regime carried out its horrific campaign.

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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.