devastate

UK: ˈdevəsteɪt | US: ˈdevəsteɪt

Definition

  1. vt. to destroy or ruin something completely

  2. vt. to cause extreme emotional pain or shock

Structure
de <completely>vast <waste>ate <verb suffix>de <completely>vast <waste>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

The word traces back to Latin devastare ("lay waste completely"), combining de- (intensifier) and vastare (to ravage). Originally describing physical destruction (e.g., wars), it expanded metaphorically to emotional devastation by the 17th century. The root vastus also gives us "waste" and "vast," reflecting the scale of emptiness left after ruin.

Examples

  1. The hurricane devastated the coastal town, leaving thousands homeless.

  2. She was devastated by the sudden loss of her mentor.

  3. Invasive species can devastate local ecosystems.

  4. The economic crisis devastated small businesses.

  5. His criticism devastated her confidence.