denude
UK: dɪˈnjuːd | US: dɪˈnuːd
vt. to strip (something) of its covering, possessions, or assets
vt. to make bare or naked; expose
Derived from Latin denudare ("to strip bare"), combining de- (off) + nudus (naked). The word entered English in the late 16th century, originally describing physical stripping (e.g., trees of leaves) and later extending metaphorically to abstraction (e.g., denuding rights or resources). The logic follows a literal-to-figurative progression, emphasizing removal or exposure.
Deforestation has denuded vast areas of the Amazon rainforest.
The storm denuded the trees of their autumn leaves.
Overgrazing can denude grasslands, leading to soil erosion.
The scandal denuded the politician of his public support.
Glaciers denude mountains by scraping away rock and soil.