Definition

The process of reducing the number of people living in a certain area, often due to factors like war, disease, or economic decline.

Example

The depopulation of the region led to abandoned towns and a loss of cultural heritage.

Conversation

Have you heard about the recent depopulation in some rural areas?

Yeah, it's quite alarming how many people are leaving those towns.

I read that it’s affecting local economies a lot.

Absolutely, fewer people means less business and fewer services.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Depopulation → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "populatio" (from Latin "populus", meaning people). The word refers to the act of reducing the population or the number of people in a given area.

Memory Tip

Think of 'de-' meaning 'down' or 'away' and 'populus' meaning 'people' — this helps you remember that depopulation means reducing the number of people.

Visually Confused Words