Deserted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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deserted

[dษชหˆzษœหtษชd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling or appearance

having been abandoned or left empty

Synonyms

abandoned, empty, forsaken.

Examples of usage

  • a deserted village
  • the hotel was deserted
Context #2 | Verb

action

leave (a place), causing it to appear empty

Synonyms

abandon, forsake, leave.

Examples of usage

  • he deserted his wife and children
  • the soldiers deserted their posts

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Deserted settings are often used in literature to create a sense of loneliness or mystery.
  • In novels, abandoned places can signify a character's emotional state, reflecting feelings of isolation.

Psychology

  • Being in a deserted place can trigger feelings of anxiety or fear in some people, known as agoraphobia.
  • The absence of human presence can lead to heightened focus on oneโ€™s thoughts, sometimes causing introspection.

History

  • Historical sites often become deserted due to events like war or natural disasters, leading to ghost towns.
  • Some once-busy cities became deserted due to economic decline, reflecting the struggles faced by communities over time.

Pop Culture

  • Deserted locations often appear in horror movies to enhance suspense and create eerie atmospheres.
  • Post-apocalyptic themes frequently explore deserted cities, showcasing the aftermath of humanity's choices.

Origin of 'deserted'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'desertus', which means 'abandon' or 'forsaken'.
  • In English, the word has been in use since the 14th century, originally pertaining to abandoned places or areas.

The word 'deserted' originates from the Old French word 'deserter', which means 'to abandon'. The term has been used in English since the 15th century to describe places or people that have been abandoned or left empty. Over time, 'deserted' has evolved to encompass a sense of loneliness and desolation, reflecting the emptiness and solitude often associated with abandoned locations.


See also: desertedly, deserter, deserting, desertion.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,702 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.