# depletion

/dɪˈpɫiʃən/ (US) · /dɪplˈiːʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/depletion
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the act of using up a supply of something until there is very little or none left. It is often used when talking about natural resources like water or energy.

For teachers: the reduction in the number or quantity of something; the act of exhausting a resource or supply.

## Examples

- The depletion of the ozone layer is a serious environmental concern.
- Farmers are worried about the rapid depletion of groundwater during the long summer drought.
- Economists argue that the rapid depletion of non-renewable resources will eventually force a global shift toward sustainable energy alternatives to prevent a total industrial collapse.

## Usage notes

- Often followed by the preposition 'of' to indicate the resource being exhausted.

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