Demolishing: meaning, definitions and examples

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demolishing

 

[ dɪˈmɒlɪʃɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

construction, destruction

Demolishing refers to the act of deliberately tearing down or destroying a building or structure. It often involves the use of heavy machinery and can be part of urban redevelopment or clearing space for new construction.

Synonyms

destroying, razing, tearing down, wrecking

Examples of usage

  • The city council approved the plan for demolishing the old factory.
  • They are demolishing the abandoned houses to make way for a park.
  • Demolishing the stadium was a necessary step for the new development project.

Translations

Translations of the word "demolishing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 demolição

🇮🇳 ध्वस्त करना

🇩🇪 Abbruch

🇮🇩 penghancuran

🇺🇦 демонтаж

🇵🇱 rozbiórka

🇯🇵 解体

🇫🇷 démolition

🇪🇸 demolición

🇹🇷 yıkım

🇰🇷 철거

🇸🇦 هدم

🇨🇿 demolice

🇸🇰 demolácia

🇨🇳 拆除

🇸🇮 rušenje

🇮🇸 niðurrif

🇰🇿 бұзу

🇬🇪 ანგარიშება

🇦🇿 sökülmə

🇲🇽 demolición

Etymology

The word 'demolish' originates from the Latin word 'demoliri', which means 'to tear down'. Composed of 'de-' meaning 'down' and 'molliri', meaning 'to move or soften', it reflects the action of bringing down or destroying a structure by force. The term was adopted into Middle French as 'démolir' before making its way into the English language in the early 17th century. Initially used in the context of physical structures, 'demolishing' has been extended to metaphorical uses where concepts, ideas, or systems are also 'demolished'. Over the centuries, the term gained traction in architectural, construction, and urban planning discussions, particularly as cities evolved and older structures were replaced or repurposed.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,725, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.