# decrepit

/dəˈkɹɛpɪt/ (US) · /dɪkɹˈɛpɪt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/decrepit
Updated: 2026-05-27

## Definition

in very bad condition because of being old or not being taken care of. You use this to describe things like old buildings or machines that are falling apart.

For teachers: in a state of extreme disrepair or decay, typically due to age or neglect. Often used to describe physical structures or mechanical systems that are no longer functional.

## Examples

- The old factory is a decrepit building.
- The city council decided to demolish the decrepit warehouse after it was found to be a fire hazard.
- The explorer described the decrepit ruins of the ancient temple, noting how centuries of salt air and neglect had eroded the once-majestic stone carvings.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.