# devastation

/ˌdɛvəˈsteɪʃən/ (US) · /dˌɛvəstˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/devastation
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

great destruction or damage that ruins a place. It can also describe the feeling of being very shocked and sad.

For teachers: the state of being decayed or destroyed; severe and widespread damage. In an emotional context, refers to a state of overwhelming shock or grief.

## Examples

- 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.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable in its general sense; often used with the preposition 'of' to describe the cause.

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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.