extractive

American  

[ik-strak-tiv] / ɪkˈstræk tɪv /

adjective

1. tending or serving to extract, or based upon extraction.

   coal, oil, copper, and other extractive industries.

2. capable of being extracted, as from the earth.

   extractive fuels.

3. of, relating to, or involving extraction.

   extractive surgery.

4. of or of the nature of an extract.

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noun

1. something extracted.

extractive British  

/ ɪkˈstræktɪv /

adjective

1. tending or serving to extract

2. of, involving, or capable of extraction

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noun

1. something extracted or capable of being extracted

2. the part of an extract that is insoluble

Other Word Forms

• nonextractive adjective

Etymology

Origin of extractive

First recorded in 1590–1600; extract + -ive

Example Sentences

Critics argue this work is extractive and poorly compensated, especially when these AI systems are being trained to ultimately replace human labor.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 12, 2026

Vegas has grown more expensive in recent years—hotels and restaurants have gotten pricier, gambling more extractive.

From Slate • Nov. 18, 2025

In contrast, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan already have mature extractive industries, technical expertise, and governments eager to expand cooperation with the West.

From Barron's • Oct. 24, 2025

"There is the issue of climate change, that it doesn't rain anymore, but the main impact has been caused by extractive mining," he says.

From BBC • Jul. 19, 2025

The most productive sectors will continue to be in extractive industries, especially oil and gas, mining, and timber with the latter especially causing environmental degradation.

From The 2008 CIA World Factbook by United States. Central Intelligence Agency