Depopulate: meaning, definitions and examples
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depopulate
[diːˈpɒpjʊleɪt ]
Definition
population reduction
To depopulate means to reduce the number of inhabitants in a particular area or region. This can occur due to various factors such as war, disease, or intentional intervention by authorities.
Synonyms
decrease, diminish, empty, reduce.
Examples of usage
- The war led to the depopulation of several cities.
- Policies aimed at depopulating certain areas were introduced.
- Natural disasters can depopulate regions in their aftermath.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'de-', meaning 'down' or 'from', combined with 'populare', meaning 'to people' or 'to inhabit'.
- First recorded use was in the mid-20th century, notably in discussions about population control.
- Related terms include 'population', which stems from the same Latin root, indicating its focus on the number of people.
Historical Context
- In the 14th century, Europe faced severe depopulation due to the Black Death, which wiped out an estimated 25 million people.
- Certain colonial practices led to the depopulation of indigenous populations through disease and displacement.
- Modern discussions about depopulation often relate to environmental sustainability and urban planning as areas become overcrowded.
Cultural References
- Dystopian literature often explores themes of depopulation, reflecting fears about resource scarcity and government control.
- Films like 'Children of Men' illustrate a world grappling with widespread depopulation and societal breakdown.
- The idea appears in various mythologies, such as the concept of catastrophic events leading to population decline, often as a warning.
Psychology
- Research shows that areas with high depopulation rates can lead to psychological stress among remaining residents due to feelings of isolation.
- Studies indicate that people may fear depopulation due to its association with loss of community, culture, and identity.
- Conversely, some argue that less population density can enhance quality of life by reducing competition for resources.
Environmental Impact
- In discussions about climate change, depopulating certain overpopulated areas can be a strategy for environmental restoration.
- Advocates for urban depopulation promote the idea that fewer people can lead to less pollution and decreased consumption.
- The phenomenon is sometimes analyzed through the lens of urban ecology, where biodiversity can rebound in depopulated regions.
Translations
Translations of the word "depopulate" in other languages:
🇵🇹 despovoar
🇮🇳 जनसंख्या घटाना
🇩🇪 entvölkern
🇮🇩 mengurangi populasi
🇺🇦 зменшити населення
🇵🇱 wypopulować
🇯🇵 人口を減少させる
🇫🇷 dépeupler
🇪🇸 despoblar
🇹🇷 nüfusu azaltmak
🇰🇷 인구를 줄이다
🇸🇦 تقليل السكان
🇨🇿 vyľidnit
🇸🇰 vypustiť
🇨🇳 减少人口
🇸🇮 depopulirati
🇮🇸 fækka íbúum
🇰🇿 халықты азайту
🇬🇪 გადატვირთვა
🇦🇿 əhalini azaltmaq
🇲🇽 despoblar