devastation
n. uncountable B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌdɛvəˈsteɪʃən// UK //dˌɛvəstˈeɪʃən// dev·as·ta·tion
n. great destruction or damage that ruins a place. It can also describe the feeling of being very shocked and sad.
n. the state of being decayed or destroyed; severe and widespread damage. In an emotional context, refers to a state of overwhelming shock or grief.
The storm caused total devastation in the small coastal town.
The local community struggled to recover from the devastation caused by the sudden closure of the factory.
Witnessing the environmental devastation of the rainforest first-hand prompted the scientist to dedicate her career to conservation law and sustainable development.
From Middle French dévastation.
Usage
Uncountable in its general sense; often used with the preposition 'of' to describe the cause.