erradicar

Erradicar is a verb in Spanish (also used in Portuguese) meaning to eliminate completely, to root out and destroy something harmful or undesired, such as a disease, a pest, or a social problem. It conveys a comprehensive removal rather than mere reduction.

Etymology: the word derives from Latin eradicare, formed from e- “out” + radix “root,” indicating removal from the roots. In modern usage the term extends to programs aimed at permanent absence of the target, not only temporary suppression.

Usage and scope: in public health, erradicar refers to campaigns that aim to eliminate a disease worldwide, as distinct from merely controlling its spread. In agriculture and ecology, it denotes the complete removal of a pest or invasive species. In social policy, it can describe efforts to eradicate poverty, corruption, or violence, though such goals are often debated and depend on context, resources, and feasibility. The term is commonly used in formal or policy-related discourse.

Linguistic notes: erradicar is a regular -ar verb. Its present tense forms include yo erradico, tú erradicas, él erradica, nosotros erradicamos, vosotros erradicáis, ellos erradican; the preterite has the orthographic form yo erradiqué. The noun form is erradicación.

See also: erradicación, eliminación, eradicación.