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noun Uncommon

devastation

deh-vuh-STAY-shn

Devastation (noun) means Widespread destruction, or the state of having been destroyed. Example: “Photos showed the sheer devastation left by the flood.”

noun
1
Widespread destruction, or the state of having been destroyed.
"Photos showed the sheer devastation left by the flood."

How to use devastation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTotal ruin left behind after a disaster.

Common pairings
widespread devastation scenes of devastation

Word forms

devastations plural

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Photos showed the sheer _____ left by the flood.

Etymology

From Middle French dévastation.

Origin: Middle French

Related words

Rhymes for devastation

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Frequently asked questions

What does “devastation” mean?

The word “devastation” means widespread destruction, or the state of having been destroyed. In plain terms, total ruin left behind after a disaster.

How do you pronounce “devastation”?

“Devastation” is pronounced deh-vuh-STAY-shn (/ˌdɛ.vəˈsteɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “devastation” in a sentence?

Here is “devastation” used in a sentence: “Photos showed the sheer devastation left by the flood.”

What is another word for “devastation”?

Words with a similar meaning to “devastation” include havoc.

What part of speech is “devastation”?

“Devastation” is a noun.

Where does the word “devastation” come from?

The word “devastation” comes from Middle French. From Middle French dévastation.

Is “devastation” a common word?

“Devastation” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial