erase

To remove writing, marks, or information so they can no longer be seen or used.

• Erase that pencil mark.
• She erased her answer and tried again.
• Can you erase the writing from the board?

How to use it: erase something from something (He erased the marks from the wall.)

Similar words: remove, rub out, wipe out

Common phrases: erase pencil marks, erase a mistake, erase the board, erase a file

To remove all the recorded information from a disk, tape, or other storage device.

• Erase the tape before recording.
• She erased the old disk completely.
• Have you backed up everything before you erase the drive?

Similar words: wipe, clear

Common phrases: erase a tape, erase the disk, erase a drive

To kill someone, especially to stop them causing trouble or revealing secrets.

• The gang planned to erase the witness.
• A hired killer erased the agent.
• He knew too much, so his boss ordered someone to erase him.

Similar words: kill, assassinate, eliminate

Common phrases: erase someone quietly, erase the witness