Extant
mediumNeutral toneEK-stunt
adjective
Definition
Still in existence; not destroyed or lost
Memory hook
EX-TANT: still STANDING (stare) — not extinct but still existing.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The only extant copies of the manuscript are housed in the British Library.”
“Scientists study extant species to understand evolutionary relationships with extinct organisms.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The only ______ copies of the manuscript are housed in the British Library.”
Show answer
extant
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Extant is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "existing" or "surviving" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "extinct".
Related GRE Words
abiding
Lasting for a long time; enduring and unchanging
ephemeral
Lasting for a very short time; transitory
fugitive
Quick to disappear; fleeting; a person who has escaped
imminent
About to happen; impending
perennial
Lasting for an indefinitely long time; enduring
transient
Lasting only for a short time; temporary
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