Definition

To cause great destruction or damage to something, often leaving it in ruins or in a state of shock.

Example

The hurricane will devastate the coastal towns if it makes landfall.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard the storm last night really devastated the town.

Yeah, it was really bad; so many trees fell down.

I can't believe how much damage it caused; it must have been overwhelming.

Absolutely, it's going to take a long time to recover from that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Devastate → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "vastare" (meaning to lay waste or make empty). The word "devastate" means to lay waste or destroy something completely, leaving it empty or in ruins.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'laid waste' ('vastare') and 'taken away' ('de-') — that's why devastate means to completely destroy.

Visually Confused Words