expire
|ex-pire|
B2
🇺🇸
/ɪkˈspaɪər/
🇬🇧
/ɪkˈspaɪə/
end of validity
Etymology
Etymology Information
'expire' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'exspirare,' where 'ex-' meant 'out' and 'spirare' meant 'to breathe.'
Historical Evolution
'exspirare' transformed into the Old French word 'expirer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'expire' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to breathe out,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to come to an end.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to come to an end; to cease to be valid after a period of time.
The contract will expire next month.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to breathe out; to exhale.
He expired a sigh of relief.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39