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Blighting: meaning, definitions and examples

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blighting

 

[ˈblaɪtɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

environmental damage

Blighting refers to the process of damaging or spoiling something, often in an environmental context. It can describe the effect of disease or adverse conditions on plants, leading to their deterioration. Additionally, blighting can apply metaphorically to communities or urban areas that suffer from neglect and economic decline. The term is often used in discussions about urban development and revitalization efforts aimed at eliminating areas that are visually unappealing or in disrepair.

Synonyms

damaging, destroying, devastating, ruining.

Examples of usage

  • The blighting effect of pollution on local wildlife was evident.
  • The abandoned factories were a blighting presence in the neighborhood.
  • Efforts to combat urban blighting have gained momentum in recent years.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'blight' comes from the Old English term 'blÄ«Ä‹e,' which means 'to whiten' or 'to grow pale,' reflecting deterioration.
  • Originally used in the context of plant diseases, it has broadened to encompass any kind of destruction or decay.
  • In literature, the term has evolved to symbolize not only physical damage but also emotional and social decay.

Agriculture

  • Blight is a significant problem in agriculture, particularly during the Irish Potato Famine in the 19th century, caused by potato blight.
  • Different types of blight affect various crops; for example, late blight can devastate tomatoes and potatoes, leading to economic losses.
  • Farmers often employ fungicides and crop rotation to manage blight and protect their harvests from disease.

Cultural References

  • In urban contexts, blight is often used to describe areas that have become run-down, leading to social issues and economic decline.
  • The term appears in many forms of art, symbolizing loss and decay, such as in literature, music, and visual arts.
  • Films and books about urban decay often reference ‘blighting’ to evoke feelings of neglect and desolation.

Psychology

  • The concept of blight can extend to mental health, where negative thoughts and experiences can sap one's vitality and joy.
  • Living in a blighted environment can affect mental health, increasing stress and feelings of hopelessness.
  • Researchers look into how deteriorating environments impact community well-being and individual psychology.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,653, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.