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Defoliate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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defoliate

[dɪˈfoʊliˌeɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

agriculture, botany

To defoliate means to remove leaves from a plant or tree, either naturally or artificially. This process can occur due to various reasons such as environmental conditions, pest infestations, or intentional farming practices. In agriculture, defoliation is often used to enhance crop yield by encouraging better fruit production. However, excessive defoliation can harm the plant and reduce its overall health. Understanding the balance in defoliation is crucial for successful cultivation.

Synonyms

bare, desheet, remove leaves, strip.

Examples of usage

  • Farmers sometimes defoliate cotton plants before harvest.
  • The severe windstorm defoliated the trees in the park.
  • Chemical agents are used to defoliate certain crops.
  • Defoliation can result in increased sunlight exposure for ripe fruits.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Defoliation can occur naturally in autumn when trees shed their leaves in preparation for winter.
  • In agriculture, farmers may use chemical defoliants to make crops easier to harvest by causing leaves to drop.
  • Some plants are genetically modified to tolerate specific types of defoliation without long-term harm.

Environmental Impact

  • Defoliation can lead to soil erosion since leaves help protect the ground and retain moisture.
  • Certain military practices have involved defoliants to eliminate cover for enemy operations, raising environmental concerns.
  • Deforestation, a larger scale of defoliation, contributes to climate change by reducing carbon absorption capabilities.

Cultural References

  • In literature, defoliation can symbolize change or loss, as seen in narratives about seasonal shifts and the passage of time.
  • Defoliants have appeared in films and historical accounts relating to wars, highlighting the dual nature of environmental impact.
  • Certain art movements have used defoliation as a metaphor for the relationships between humans and nature.

Origin of 'defoliate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'defoliare,' where 'de-' means 'down from' and 'folium' means 'leaf.'
  • This term began to be used in the English language around the 19th century, especially in agricultural contexts.
  • Related words include 'foliage,' which refers to the leaves of a plant.

The term 'defoliate' originates from the combination of the prefix 'de-', meaning removal or reversal, and 'foliage', which is derived from the Latin word 'folium,' meaning leaf. The usage of 'defoliate' in the context of botany can be traced back to the mid-20th century, especially during World War II when chemical agents were used extensively for military purposes. The practice spread to agriculture as a method for improving crop efficiency and managing pests. Today, the word is chiefly associated with agricultural practices, pest control measures, and ecological studies concerning plant health and growth. Defoliation also serves as a critical concept in environmental science, particularly in discussions about the impact of human activity on ecosystems and biodiversity.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,588, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.