English · Word Candidate

terminate

/ˈtɜːmɪneɪ̯t/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: terminates · terminating

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To end something, especially when left in an incomplete state.

Verb

to terminate a process before its completion

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

To conclude.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

Terminated; limited; bounded; ended.

Adjective

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

Having a definite and clear limit or boundary; having a determinate size, shape or magnitude.

Adjective

Mountains on the Moon cast shadows that are very dark, terminate and more distinct than those cast by mountains on the Earth.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “terminate” mean?

To end something, especially when left in an incomplete state.

Is “terminate” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.