extrication

[ ek-stri-key-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act of freeing a trapped or entangled person or thing:

   In an avalanche, rapid extrication of victims within 10 to 20 minutes of burial is essential for survival.

   Unexpectedly, it is the children who bear the burden of the family's extrication from the problems overtaking them.

Other Words From

• non·ex·tri·ca·tion noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of extrication¹

First recorded in 1610–20; equivalent to Latin extrīcāre ( extricate ( def ) ) + -ion ( def )

Example Sentences

For many of the hostage families, the greatest fear is that despite the stated goal, the government is not prioritizing the extrication of the hostages.

From New York Times

There appeared to be people trapped in vehicles, with the department reporting “some with extrication needs.”

From Los Angeles Times

Firefighter dispatch logs show a major extrication response at 4:45 p.m. along 23rd Avenue, where a car landed to the right of the sidewalk.

From Seattle Times

A paramedic and extrication equipment were deployed to the car using a 200-foot line, the sheriff’s office said.

From Los Angeles Times

Nearby, the Seattle Fire Department responded to a “rescue extrication” at 16th Avenue Northeast and Northeast 47th Street around the same time.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• breakout
• departure
• desertion
• disappearance
• flight
• freedom
• liberation
• outbreak
• rescue
• withdrawal