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Blight Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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blight

[blaษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

disease effect

Blight refers to a plant disease caused by fungi or bacteria that results in the rapid death of plant tissues. It can manifest in various ways, such as wilting, discoloration, and decay. This destructive condition can severely impact agricultural yields and ecosystems. The term is also used metaphorically to describe anything that has a detrimental effect.

Synonyms

decay, disease, plague, rot.

Examples of usage

  • The potato blight devastated crops in Ireland.
  • The blight on the roses made them unsightly.
  • Farmers are concerned about the blight affecting their harvests.
Context #2 | Verb

cause decay

To blight means to cause something to suffer a decline or deterioration. It typically refers to a situation where an external factor leads to the destruction or significant impairment of something, often in an irreversible manner. This action can relate to physical objects, environments, or even abstract concepts such as hopes and dreams.

Synonyms

destroy, diminish, ruin, spoil.

Examples of usage

  • The factory closing blighted the local economy.
  • Her harsh criticism blighted his confidence.
  • The area was blighted by years of neglect.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'blight'

The word 'blight' originates from the Middle English term 'blighten', which is believed to have come from the Old English word 'blฤซcgan', meaning to shine, but also to cause harm or destruction. The term evolved through Old Norse and Middle Dutch influences, gradually acquiring its association with decay and disease in plants. Historically, 'blight' was used primarily in agricultural contexts to describe the damage caused by pests or disease. By the 19th century, the metaphorical use of the term in describing things that cause deterioration spread to social and economic contexts, referring to areas suffering from neglect and desolation. Today, 'blight' is used in a variety of discourses, including environmental science, urban studies, and literature, often symbolizing decay and loss.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,274, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.