Definition

To greatly decrease the number of people living in a certain area, often due to events like war, disease, or forced movement.

Example

The war caused many towns to depopulate as people fled to safer regions.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear how the war could depopulate some regions?

Yeah, it's really tragic to think about.

It makes you realize how fragile life can be.

Absolutely, we should appreciate what we have.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Depopulate → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "populus" (meaning people). The word describes the act of reducing the population or removing people from an area.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing people' ('de-') from a place ('populus' means people) — that's why depopulate means to reduce the number of people in an area.

Visually Confused Words