Pronunciation: [ɛkstˈant] (IPA) 
The word "extant" is spelled with the letters E-X-T-A-N-T, and it is pronounced /ɪkˈstænt/. The "e" is pronounced as "ih" or "eh," the "x" is pronounced as "eks," the "t" is pronounced as "tuh," the "a" is pronounced as "ae," the "n" is pronounced as "n," and the "t" is pronounced as "tuh." The word is commonly used to describe something that still exists, particularly in reference to a text or manuscript.
Extant is an adjective that is used to describe something that still exists, survives, or is currently in existence. The term originates from the Latin word "extantem," which means "standing out" or "remaining."
In a historical or archaeological context, extant refers to any documents, artifacts, or structures that have managed to withstand the passage of time and have been preserved. It implies that these objects have endured throughout the years and are available for study or observation in the present.
When used to describe living beings, extant emphasizes that a particular species exists or has survived to the present day, often contrasting it with extinct species that no longer exist. It can also be employed to compare the current population or distribution of a species to its historical presence or range.
Additionally, extant can be applied to works of literature, music, or art that have endured over many generations and still remain in existence today. This term implies not only the physical preservation of these works but also their continued relevance and influence in contemporary culture.
Overall, extant is a versatile adjective that is used to highlight the existence, survival, and endurance of various objects, species, or cultural creations in the present, indicating their importance and value as witnesses to the past.
In existence; not destroyed or lost.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "extant" is derived from the Latin word "extans", which is the present participle of "extare", meaning "to stand out" or "to be standing". It comes from the combination of the prefix "ex-" (meaning "out") and the verb "stare" (meaning "to stand"). In English, "extant" is used to describe something that is still in existence or surviving.
