Definition

In very bad condition because of age or lack of care; falling apart or broken down.

Example

The dilapidated house looked like it hadn't been lived in for years.

Conversation

Have you seen that old house on Maple Street?

Yeah, it looks really dilapidated now, doesn't it?

I wonder how long it's been like that.

Probably years; it's such a shame to see it in such a dilapidated state.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dilapidated is formed from "di-" (meaning apart) and "lapidare" (meaning to stone or to throw stones at). The word originally described something that has been thrown apart or ruined, often referring to buildings that have fallen into disrepair.

Memory Tip

Think of something that has been 'thrown apart' ('di-') and 'stoned' ('lapidare') — that's why dilapidated means something is in a state of ruin or disrepair.

Visually Confused Words