extinguish

word

Definition

To cause a fire, light, or feeling to stop burning or existing; to put out or end something.

Usage & Nuances

More formal than 'put out.' Often used with fire ('extinguish a fire'), lights ('extinguish the lights'), or hopes/feelings ('extinguish hope'). Rarely used for emotions in everyday conversation. 'Extinguisher' means a device that puts out fires.

Example Sentences

Firefighters worked quickly to extinguish the fire.

basic

Please extinguish all lights before leaving.

basic

It is hard to extinguish old habits.

basic

The candle was extinguished by a gust of wind.

natural

Not even bad news could extinguish her excitement.

natural

Make sure to extinguish your cigarette before you throw it away.

natural