Extinguishable

/ɪkˈstɪŋɡwɪʃəbəl/ adjective

Definition

Capable of being extinguished, put out, or eliminated; able to be made extinct.

Etymology

From 'extinguish' + '-able' (capable of being). The term has been in English since the 17th century when discussing both literal fire and metaphorical concepts like rights, hopes, or species.

Kelly Says

In legal documents, you'll see the term 'extinguishable rights' meaning rights that can be legally terminated—it's a great example of how the same word works for everything from fire to legal status!

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