Definition

To remove all the trees from a forest or area of land, usually to use the land for something else.

Example

The company plans to deforest a large area to build a new shopping center.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you heard about the plans to deforest that area near the river?

Yeah, I read an article about it. It’s really concerning.

I can’t believe they want to deforest such a beautiful place.

I know, right? We should do something to help protect it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deforest → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "forest" (from Old French *forest*, meaning a wooded area). The word "deforest" means to remove trees from a wooded area, effectively taking away the forest.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking away' ('de-') trees from a 'wooded area' ('forest') — that's why deforest means to remove trees from a forest.

Visually Confused Words