# demolition

/ˌdɛməˈɫɪʃən/ (US) · /dˌɛməlˈɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/demolition
Updated: 2026-05-03

## Definition

the act of completely destroying a building or other large structure. You usually see this when old houses are knocked down to make space for new ones.

For teachers: the act of deliberately destroying a structure, typically a building. Often involves the use of heavy machinery or explosives to clear a site for redevelopment.

## Examples

- The demolition of the old factory starts tomorrow morning.
- City officials approved the demolition of the derelict warehouse to make room for a new public park.
- While the demolition of the historic theater sparked public outcry, the structural engineers maintained that the foundation was too compromised to support any modern renovation efforts.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the general process; countable when referring to a specific instance or event.

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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.