Expire

Definition

Expire primarily refers to coming to an end or ceasing to be in effect, especially in relation to time limits or lifespans.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈspaɪər/
• Respelling: ik-SPY-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈspaɪə/
• Respelling: ik-SPY-uh

The primary difference is in the final vowel sound, where American English has a pronounced "r" sound, while British English typically does not.

Etymology

The word expire originates from the Latin expīrāre, which means "to breathe out." This Latin word is a combination of ex- meaning "out" and spīrāre meaning "to breathe." The term evolved to encompass the idea of the final breath, leading to its modern meanings of termination or cessation.

Derivatives

• Expiration (noun) - The act of coming to an end or the point at which something ends.
• Expired (adjective) - Having come to an end or no longer valid.
• Expiratory (adjective) - Relating to the process of breathing out.
• Expirant (noun) - A person who is about to die or has died.
• Expiring (adjective) - About to come to an end.

Synonyms

• Elapse
• Terminate
• End

Antonyms

• Commence
• Begin
• Initiate

Usage

The verb expire is commonly used in contexts such as the end of a legal or contractual term, the validity of perishable goods, or the cessation of life. It can be used both literally and figuratively, depending on the context.

Related Terms

• Expiration - The end of a fixed period of time.
• Terminate - To bring something to an end.
• Perish - To die or come to an end in a sudden or abrupt manner.

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Termination of Validity: Refers to the conclusion of a period during which something is valid, such as a contract, agreement, or product.
  • Example: The lease on the apartment will expire next month.

• To Cease to Function or Operate: Refers to when something, such as a license or subscription, no longer has effect or is no longer active.
  
  • Example: Her membership expired last week, so she can no longer access the gym.

• Breathing Out Air: Refers to the act of releasing air from the lungs.
  • Example: The patient was instructed to expire deeply before taking another breath.

• Cessation of Life: Used figuratively or literally to describe the end of life.
  • Example: The elderly man expired peacefully in his sleep.