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Defoliation: meaning, definitions and examples

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defoliation

 

[ dɪˌfoʊ.liˈeɪ.ʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

natural process

Defoliation is the loss of leaves from a plant, usually as a result of disease, environmental stress, or seasonal changes. It can also refer to the intentional removal of leaves for agricultural purposes, often to enhance crop production or manage pests. In some contexts, defoliation can be related to military operations, where chemical agents are used to remove foliage and provide visibility.

Synonyms

leaf drop, leaf loss, leaf shedding

Examples of usage

  • The defoliation of the forest changed the ecosystem.
  • Farmers sometimes practice defoliation to improve their yield.
  • The area faced severe defoliation due to the drought.
  • The military used defoliation techniques to clear the jungle.

Translations

Translations of the word "defoliation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desfoliação

🇮🇳 पत्ते गिराना

🇩🇪 Entlaubung

🇮🇩 defoliasi

🇺🇦 облиснення

🇵🇱 defoliacja

🇯🇵 落葉

🇫🇷 défoliation

🇪🇸 defoliación

🇹🇷 defoliasyon

🇰🇷 탈엽

🇸🇦 إزالة الأوراق

🇨🇿 defolace

🇸🇰 defolácia

🇨🇳 落叶

🇸🇮 defolacija

🇮🇸 blöðfall

🇰🇿 жапырақ түсу

🇬🇪 ფოთლების დაცემა

🇦🇿 yarpaqların tökülməsi

🇲🇽 defoliación

Etymology

The term 'defoliation' originates from the prefix 'de-' meaning 'removal' and the Latin word 'folium,' meaning 'leaf.' The word began to be used in the English language in the early 20th century, primarily in agricultural and ecological contexts. Its application expanded during the Vietnam War when military forces employed chemical agents like Agent Orange to facilitate defoliation in jungle areas, thereby exposing enemy positions. This usage led to significant ecological consequences and public outcry, which positioned the word in a more controversial light. Today, defoliation continues to be studied in ecology, agriculture, and environmental science as researchers examine its effects on plant populations and ecosystems.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,143, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.