endangered
UK: ɪnˈdeɪndʒəd | US: ɪnˈdeɪndʒərd
adj. (of a species) at serious risk of extinction
vt. (past tense) put someone or something at risk of harm or destruction
The word "endanger" combines the prefix "en-" (from Old French, meaning "cause to be") with "danger" (from Old French danger, meaning "power to harm"). The suffix "-ed" marks it as a past participle. Originally, "danger" referred to the power of a lord or authority, later shifting to mean "risk." The verb "endanger" emerged in the 15th century, meaning "to expose to harm," and by the 20th century, "endangered" became a key term in conservation biology to describe species at risk of extinction.
The tiger is an endangered species due to habitat loss.
Pollution has endangered marine life in this region.
His reckless actions endangered the entire team.
Conservation programs aim to protect endangered birds.
The law prohibits hunting endangered animals.