extinct

How to Split "extinct" into Syllables

The word extinct is divided into 2 syllables: ex·tinct. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• ex — 1st syllable
• tinct — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of extinct:

• IPA: /ɪkˈstɪŋ(k)t/

📖 Definitions

1. Of feelings, a person's spirit, a state of affairs, etc.: put out, as if like a fire; quenched, suppressed.
2. Of customs, ideas, laws and legal rights, offices, organizations, etc.: no longer existing or in use; defunct, discontinued, obsolete; specifically, of a title of nobility: no longer having any person qualified to hold it.

📚 Word Origin & History

From Late Middle English extinct (“eliminated, eradicated, extinguished”), from Latin extīnctus, exstīnctus (“extinguished, quenched; destroyed, killed; made extinct”), the perfect passive participles of extinguō, exstinguō (“to extinguish, put out, quench; (figurative) to abolish; to destroy, kill”), from ex- (prefix meaning ‘away; out’) + stinguō (“to extinguish, put out, quench”) (from Proto-Indo-European *stengʷ- (“to push”)). The Middle English word displaced M...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down extinct into syllables helps with:

• Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
• Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
• Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
• Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
• Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to extinct:

ext, extol, extra, extant, extend, extent, extoll, extort.