Extirpate
/ˈekstərˌpeɪt/
Definitions
- (v.) To completely remove or destroy something, especially a legal right, claim, or interest.
The court sought to extirpate the defendant's fraudulent claims from the record.
- (v.) To abolish or eradicate an undesirable legal doctrine or practice.
Legislation was passed to extirpate discriminatory provisions from the statute books.
Forms
- extirpates
- extirpated
- extirpating
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Extirpate is often used in legal contexts to denote total removal or eradication, especially of rights or doctrines; it implies more than mere cancellation—it denotes absolute destruction or elimination.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.