Terminate, v. i.
1. To be limited in space by a point, line, or surface; to stop short; to end; to cease; as, the torrid zone terminates at the tropics.
2. To come to a limit in time; to end; to close. The wisdom of this world, its designs and efficacy, terminate on zhis side heaven. South.
1 other Webster entry under this spelling
Terminate, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Terminated; p. pr. & vb. n. Terminating.]
1. To set a term or limit to; to form the extreme point or side of; to bound; to limit; as, to terminate a surface by a line.
2. To put an end to; to make to cease; as, to terminate an effort, or a controversy.
3. Hence, to put the finishing touch to; to bring to completion; to perfect. During this interval of calm and prosperity, he [Michael Angelo] terminated two figures of slaves, destined for the tomb, in an incomparable style of art. J. S. Harford.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for terminate; he lists it under abolish, cease, end.
Where he writes about it:
We abate a nuisance, terminate a controversy, suppress a rebellion. — from abate
We abate a nuisance, terminate a controversy. — from abolish
To terminate may be either to bring to an arbitrary or to an appropriate end; as, he terminated his remarks abruptly; the spire terminates in a cross. — from end