Devastate

Definition

Devastate means to destroy or ruin something completely, often referring to widespread destruction or severe emotional distress. It can be used both in a literal sense (destruction of physical objects) and a figurative sense (emotional devastation).

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdɛvəˌsteɪt/
• Respelling: DEV-uh-stayt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdɛvəsteɪt/
• Respelling: DEV-uh-stayt

The pronunciation of "devastate" is largely the same in both American and British English, with minor differences in the vowel sound.

Etymology

The word "devastate" originates from the Latin word "devastare," meaning "to lay waste." This term is composed of "de-" meaning "completely" and "vastare" meaning "to empty or lay waste." The word entered the English language in the early 17th century, retaining its connotation of destruction and ruin.

Derivatives

• Devastation (noun)
• Devastating (adjective)
• Devastated (adjective)
• Devastator (noun)
• Devastatingly (adverb)

Synonyms

• Ruin
• Destroy
• Demolish

Antonyms

• Repair
• Rebuild
• Restore

Usage

The word "devastate" is commonly used to describe large-scale destruction caused by natural disasters, wars, or other catastrophic events. It can also describe severe emotional harm or distress, such as when someone feels devastated by personal loss. For example: "The hurricane devastated the coastal town," or "She was devastated by the news of his death."

Related Terms

• Catastrophe: A sudden and widespread disaster.
• Destruction: The action or process of causing so much damage that something no longer exists or cannot be repaired.
• Annihilate: To destroy utterly or obliterate.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To destroy or ruin something completely: Refers to the total destruction of a place or object, often used in the context of natural disasters or wars.
  • Example: "The flood devastated the entire village."
• To cause severe emotional pain or distress: Refers to a strong emotional reaction of sadness or loss.
  • Example: "He was devastated when he lost his job."