Expunge Meaning

Meaning of the Word

Expunge means to erase, remove, or eliminate something completely, typically from a record, document, or memory.

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. To remove or erase something completely.
2. To cleanse or wipe out, particularly in legal or formal contexts.
3. To eliminate or obliterate something unwanted or harmful.

History and Origin

The word “expunge” comes from the Latin expungere, which means “to erase by striking out,” from ex- (out) and pungere (to prick or puncture). It entered the English language in the 16th century, initially used in the context of striking out words in a written document, and has since expanded to general usage for the complete removal of something.

Detailed Explanation

Expunge is most commonly used in legal contexts, referring to the act of removing a criminal record or other legal entries as if they never existed. It can also be used more broadly to mean the total removal or elimination of something unwanted, such as memories, mistakes, or harmful elements. The act of expunging suggests thoroughness in erasing all traces of the item, ensuring it no longer has an impact or presence.

Example Sentences

1. The judge ordered the defendant’s criminal record to be expunged after the case was dismissed.
2. After the scandal, the company took steps to expunge all damaging reports from the media.
3. She tried to expunge the unpleasant memories of her past relationship.
4. The library policy allows students to expunge overdue fines after completing a volunteer program.
5. He worked hard to expunge all errors from his final thesis before submission.
6. The law provides a way for individuals to expunge minor offenses from their records.
7. The editor expunged several paragraphs that were irrelevant to the article.
8. The campaign aimed to expunge the false rumors circulating about the candidate.
9. The software program allows you to expunge unnecessary files to free up storage space.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Erase – To remove something completely from a surface or record.
2. Eliminate – To completely remove or get rid of something.
3. Obliterate – To destroy something completely, leaving no trace.
4. Wipe Out – To erase or remove all traces of something.
5. Cancel – To revoke or annul something, especially an entry or record.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Delete – To remove data or information, often from a computer system.
2. Remove – To take something away or eliminate it from its place.
3. Annihilate – To destroy completely or wipe out.
4. Expel – To forcibly remove or eject someone or something.
5. Purged – To remove or cleanse something, often used in contexts of elimination.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Rectify – To correct or fix something, often by removing errors or mistakes.
2. Revoke – To take back or cancel something previously granted.
3. Erase – To wipe away or make something disappear, especially in writing or digital media.
4. Exterminate – To completely eliminate or destroy, often used for pests or harmful things.
5. Withdraw – To remove or retract something, especially a statement or action.

Antonyms

1. Add
2. Include
3. Retain
4. Preserve
5. Maintain