What does "terminate" mean?

The term "terminate" refers to the act of bringing something to an end or concluding it. This can apply to various contexts, such as terminating a contract, ending a process, or shutting down a service. The essence of the word is rooted in finality and cessation, indicating that something is being stopped or concluded.

The correct choice encapsulates this meaning effectively, as it directly aligns with the definition of "terminate." Understanding this term is essential in fields such as law, business, and technology, where ending agreements or processes is a common occurrence, often requiring clarity in its implications.

In contrast, the other options relate to different actions or concepts that don't align with the definition of "terminate." Initiating a process, extending duration, or completing half of something do not encompass the idea of ending or ceasing, which is crucial to grasping the correct context for "terminate."