Decimate definitions
| Word backwards | etamiced |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Decimate is a verb. |
| Syllabic division | The syllable separation of the word "decimate" is de-ci-mate. |
| Plural | The plural form of decimate is decimates. |
| Total letters | 8 |
| Vogais (3) | e,i,a |
| Consonants (4) | d,c,m,t |
Definition of Decimate
Decimate is a term used to describe the significant destruction or reduction of something, typically by one-tenth. The word originates from the Latin word "decimare," which means to take or destroy one-tenth. While the original meaning of decimate referred to the killing of every tenth person as a form of punishment in the Roman army, its modern usage has evolved to represent a drastic reduction in numbers or strength.
Historical Context of Decimation
In ancient Rome, decimation was a severe form of discipline used to punish soldiers who showed cowardice or mutiny. The punishment involved dividing a unit of soldiers into groups of ten and then randomly selecting one soldier from each group to be killed. This harsh practice was meant to instill fear and maintain discipline among the troops.
Modern Usage of Decimate
Today, the term decimate is often used more broadly to describe the destruction or severe reduction of something, such as a population, a resource, or a system. It can also refer to the devastation caused by natural disasters, wars, or economic downturns. When something is decimated, it is significantly diminished in size, strength, or importance.
Impact of Decimation
The impact of decimation can be far-reaching and long-lasting. When a population or a resource is decimated, it can have consequences for the environment, economy, and social fabric of a community. The loss of biodiversity, for example, can have a ripple effect on ecosystems, while the decimation of a workforce can lead to unemployment and economic instability.
Examples of Decimation
One notable example of decimation is the decline of certain animal species due to habitat destruction, poaching, or climate change. The decimation of forests, coral reefs, and other natural habitats also poses a threat to the planet's biodiversity. In a more metaphorical sense, the decimation of traditional industries by technological advances has brought about significant changes in the global economy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the term decimate carries a powerful connotation of destruction and loss. Whether used in a historical or contemporary context, it signifies a significant and often devastating reduction in numbers or strength. Understanding the impact of decimation is crucial in addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges in today's world.
Decimate Examples
- The hurricane decimated the small coastal town, leaving behind a path of destruction.
- The wildfire decimated the forest, destroying thousands of acres of trees.
- The plague decimated the population, causing widespread illness and death.
- The economic crisis decimated the company, leading to massive layoffs.
- The invading army decimated the enemy forces, leaving them weakened and defeated.
- The invasive species decimated the local ecosystem, threatening the survival of native plants and animals.
- The tornado decimated the neighborhood, demolishing homes and businesses.
- The tsunami decimated the coastal villages, washing away everything in its path.
- The frost decimated the crops, causing farmers to lose their entire harvest.
- The cyber attack decimated the company's computer systems, leading to a complete shutdown of operations.