desolation
UK: ˌdɛsəˈleɪʃən | US: ˌdɛsəˈleɪʃən
n. a state of complete emptiness or destruction
n. extreme sadness or loneliness
desolation = de<completely> + sol<alone> + ation<noun suffix>
- de: Latin prefix meaning "completely" or "thoroughly."
- sol: From Latin solus (alone), reflecting isolation or abandonment.
- ation: Noun-forming suffix indicating a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin desolatio (abandonment), combining de- (intensifier) and solus (alone). It originally described physical abandonment (e.g., a ruined place) and later expanded to emotional emptiness. The morphemes logically progress from "completely alone" to a state of ruin or despair.
The nuclear war left the city in utter desolation.
She felt a deep desolation after her friend moved away.
The abandoned house stood in silent desolation.
His eyes reflected the desolation of a broken spirit.
The landscape’s desolation was both haunting and beautiful.