Decimates meaning

Decimates definitions

Understanding Decimates

Decimates is a term used to describe a military practice that historically involved punishing a military unit for a perceived failure by executing every tenth soldier. While the practice of decimating soldiers is no longer common in contemporary warfare, the term is still used metaphorically to describe situations where a large portion of something is destroyed or eliminated.

Origins of Decimation

The practice of decimation has its roots in ancient Rome, where it was used as a form of collective punishment for mutiny or desertion. The Roman commanders would order every tenth soldier in a unit to be killed, often by stoning or clubbing, in order to make an example of the rest and prevent further disobedience.

Metaphorical Use of the Term

Today, the term decimates is used more figuratively to describe situations where a large proportion of something is severely reduced or destroyed. For example, a natural disaster could decimate a town, meaning that a significant portion of the buildings and infrastructure are destroyed.

Implications of Decimation

While the literal practice of decimating soldiers is no longer acceptable, the metaphorical use of the term highlights the devastating impact that can occur when a significant portion of something is lost or destroyed. Whether referring to populations, ecosystems, or resources, the concept of decimation underscores the importance of preservation and protection.

Conclusion

Overall, while the practice of decimating soldiers may belong to a darker era of history, the term itself continues to be used to convey the severity and scale of destruction. By understanding the origins and implications of decimation, we can better appreciate the need to safeguard against situations that could decimate the things we hold dear.

Decimates Examples

1. The hurricane decimates the small island village, leaving only rubble behind.
2. The pandemic decimates the local economy, causing many businesses to close permanently.
3. The invading army decimates the enemy forces, overwhelming them with superior firepower.
4. The wildfire decimates the forest, destroying acres of trees and wildlife habitats.
5. The disease decimates the population of a once thriving city, leaving few survivors in its wake.
6. The tornado decimates the neighborhood, tearing apart homes and uprooting trees.
7. The economic recession decimates the job market, leaving many unemployed and struggling to make ends meet.
8. The war decimates the country's infrastructure, leaving cities in ruins and in need of rebuilding.
9. The insect infestation decimates the crop yields, causing farmers to suffer heavy losses.
10. The tsunami decimates the coastal town, sweeping away buildings and causing widespread destruction.

Most accessed