What term is associated with the complete removal of something?

The term that signifies the complete removal of something is "eradication." This word is commonly used to describe the act of completely eliminating or destroying something, particularly in contexts such as diseases, pests, or harmful substances. The idea of eradication conveys a sense of thoroughness, indicating that not only is the target being removed, but that the effort aims to ensure that it cannot return or reoccur.

In various contexts, "eradication" suggests a systematic and comprehensive effort to eliminate the item or issue in question. For example, in public health, one might refer to eradication when discussing the complete elimination of a disease from a population.

The other terms are associated with different actions or concepts: retention implies keeping or holding onto something, abolition refers to the formal ending of a system, practice, or institution—often through legal means—but does not necessarily suggest complete removal. Preservation indicates the act of maintaining or protecting something from decay or destruction, which is the opposite of complete removal. Hence, "eradication" stands out as the most accurate term for complete removal.