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Defoliated: meaning, definitions and examples

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defoliated

 

[ dəˈfoʊliˌeɪtɪd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

plants, agriculture

Defoliated refers to the process by which leaves are removed or fall off from a plant or tree. This can occur naturally, often as a result of seasonal changes, or be induced through agricultural practices such as herbicide application. It can greatly impact the health of the plant, ecosystem balance, and agricultural yields, as leaves are essential for photosynthesis. In some contexts, defoliation can also refer to military tactics used to strip vegetation from an area to diminish cover for the enemy.

Synonyms

leaf drop, leaf loss, shedding

Examples of usage

  • The trees were defoliated by the harsh winter.
  • Farmers often worry about crops that have been defoliated by pests.
  • The army used chemical agents to defoliate the jungle.
  • Defoliation can lead to reduced crop yields.
  • In autumn, many trees naturally defoliate.

Translations

Translations of the word "defoliated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 defolhado

🇮🇳 पत्ते गिराना

🇩🇪 entlaubt

🇮🇩 terdefoliasi

🇺🇦 облиснілий

🇵🇱 pozbawiony liści

🇯🇵 落葉した

🇫🇷 défolié

🇪🇸 desfoliado

🇹🇷 yaprak dökülmüş

🇰🇷 잎이 떨어진

🇸🇦 مُتَساقِط

🇨🇿 defoliovaný

🇸🇰 defoliovaný

🇨🇳 落叶的

🇸🇮 defoliran

🇮🇸 blautur

🇰🇿 жапырақсыз

🇬🇪 ფოთოლმოჭრილი

🇦🇿 yarpaqsız

🇲🇽 desfoliado

Etymology

The term ‘defoliated’ is derived from the combination of the prefix ‘de-’, which suggests removal or reversal, and the root word ‘foliage’, which refers to the plant leaves. The root comes from the Latin word 'folium' meaning leaf. The concept started gaining prominence in the 18th century, particularly with the increasing awareness of plant biology and agricultural practices. The use of the term has expanded into various fields, including botany and military vernacular, due to its relevance in describing both natural processes and intentional actions taken by humans. Defoliation has significant ecological implications, affecting habitats and food systems for various species.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,619 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.