Desolation: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe a place or a feeling that is completely empty or abandoned, creating a strong sense of doom and abandonment.

• The abandoned village was a picture of desolation.
• After the wildfire, the forest was plunged into desolation.

This word usually refers to extreme destruction or ruin, often in physical terms, but can also describe significant emotional trauma.

• The hurricane left a trail of devastation in its wake.
• The news of their defeat brought a sense of devastation to the team.

This word is best suited when describing a feeling of complete hopelessness and loss. It carries a strong, emotional weight.

• She fell into deep despair after losing her job.
• His eyes were filled with despair as he watched his dreams shatter.

This word describes the feeling of being alone and isolated, often carrying a sad or melancholic tone.

• She struggled with loneliness after moving to a new city.
• Despite being surrounded by people, he couldn't escape the loneliness he felt.

Use this word to describe something lacking substance or fullness, either physically or emotionally. It's often associated with a void or hollowness.

• The emptiness of the room was unsettling.
• He couldn't shake the feeling of emptiness after the breakup.

Desolation describes a state of complete emptiness or destruction, often expressing strong emotional distress or loneliness. It implies a harsh, almost hopeless environment.

• After the hurricane, the village was left in a state of desolation.
• He felt a deep sense of desolation after losing his job.

Barrenness refers to an inability to produce anything, whether it be crops, vegetation, or offspring. It is often used to describe land that cannot grow plants or people who cannot have children.

• The barrenness of the desert made it impossible to grow any crops.
• The couple struggled with the emotional impact of barrenness.

Emptiness refers to the state of being empty or void, either physically or emotionally. It can be used to describe both literal and figurative surfaces or feelings.

• The emptiness of the room amplified the sound of footsteps.
• She felt a profound sense of emptiness after her children moved out.

Bleakness is used to describe something that is dreary, gloomy, and without hope. It often refers to the weather, landscape, or situations that seem devoid of comfort or cheer.

• The bleakness of the winter landscape matched his mood.
• The future looked bleak after the company's bankruptcy.