What type of volcano is considered to be no longer active and unlikely to erupt again?

The classification of volcanoes into active, dormant, and extinct categories helps scientists understand their likelihood of future eruptions. An extinct volcano is one that has not erupted for thousands of years and is not expected to erupt again in the future. These volcanoes have typically shown no signs of seismic activity or volcanic gas emissions, which are indicators of potential eruptions.

Extinct volcanoes generally have eroded and changed significantly over time, making an eruption highly unlikely. This distinguishes them from dormant volcanoes, which may still have the potential to erupt again, although they have been inactive for a period. In contrast, active volcanoes are currently erupting or showing signs that a future eruption could be imminent. Therefore, the term "extinct" accurately describes a volcano that is considered no longer active and unlikely to erupt again.