Deforesting: meaning, definitions and examples

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deforesting

 

[ dɪˈfɔːrɪstɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

environmental impact

Deforesting refers to the process of clearing forested land, typically for agricultural or urban development. This action can lead to significant ecological consequences, such as loss of biodiversity, changes in soil composition, and disruption of water cycles. It can also contribute to climate change due to increased carbon emissions when trees are cut down. Deforesting is a major concern in many regions around the world, as forests play a critical role in maintaining environmental balance.

Synonyms

clear-cutting, logging, tree removal

Examples of usage

  • The company was criticized for deforesting large areas for its new plantation.
  • Deforesting regions rapidly increases the risk of soil erosion.
  • Activists are protesting against the deforesting practices in the Amazon.
  • Government regulations are needed to prevent harmful deforesting.

Translations

Translations of the word "deforesting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desmatamento

🇮🇳 वनस्पति नाश

🇩🇪 Abholzung

🇮🇩 penebangan hutan

🇺🇦 викорчовування лісів

🇵🇱 wylesianie

🇯🇵 森林伐採

🇫🇷 déforestation

🇪🇸 deforestación

🇹🇷 ormanların kesilmesi

🇰🇷 산림 파괴

🇸🇦 إزالة الغابات

🇨🇿 odlesňování

🇸🇰 odlesňovanie

🇨🇳 森林砍伐

🇸🇮 krčenje gozdov

🇮🇸 skógarrækt

🇰🇿 орманның жойылуы

🇬🇪 ხის მოჭრა

🇦🇿 meşə kəsimi

🇲🇽 deforestación

Etymology

The term 'deforesting' originates from the prefix 'de-', meaning 'to do the opposite of,' and the word 'forest,' which can be traced back to the Latin 'foresta,' referring to a woodland. The concept of deforestation has been present since ancient times as civilizations cleared forests for agriculture and settlements. However, the term gained significant attention during the industrial and post-industrial periods, especially with the advent of modern agriculture, urbanization, and logging practices. In the late 20th century, studies began to show the severe environmental impacts of widespread deforestation, particularly concerning climate change and biodiversity loss. As a result, the term has become a focal point in environmental discussions and policy-making.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,179, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.