extinct
word
Definition
No longer existing; having died out completely, with no living members remaining. Used for species, languages, or volcanoes that are no longer active.
Usage & Nuances
Key difference: "endangered" = at risk, "extinct" = already gone forever. Also applies to volcanoes ("extinct volcano" = will never erupt again). Colloquially used for outdated things: "That technology is practically extinct." "Go extinct" and "become extinct" are both correct.
Example Sentences
Dinosaurs have been extinct for millions of years.
basic
The dodo bird went extinct in the 17th century.
basic
Scientists worry that many species could become extinct soon.
basic
Phone booths are practically extinct — when did you last see one?
natural
The volcano has been extinct for over ten thousand years.
natural
If we don't act now, this language will go extinct within our lifetime.
natural