deforestation

noun

de·​for·​es·​ta·​tion (ˌ)dē-ˌfȯr-ə-ˈstā-shən How to pronounce deforestation (audio)
-ˌfär-
: the action or process of clearing of forests
also : the state of having been cleared of forests

Examples of deforestation in a Sentence

the deforestation of the island
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The liberation of the leaves will undermine the black-market trade and reduce deforestation by freeing for cultivation lands long ago cleared and abandoned. Wade Davis, Rolling Stone, 6 Apr. 2025 And Answers For Tuesday, March 18 Forests And Responsible Consumer Behavior Consumer choices significantly impact deforestation. Dianne Plummer, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025 The practical strategies for advancement ranged from addressing deforestation to circularity and the inclusivity of the local workforce. Mayu Saini, Sourcing Journal, 11 Mar. 2025 Expanding pastures and feed crops drive deforestation that displaces countless animals and destroys biodiversity. Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 21 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for deforestation

Word History

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of deforestation was in 1874

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Cite this Entry

“Deforestation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deforestation. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

deforestation

noun
de·​for·​es·​ta·​tion (ˌ)dē-ˌfȯr-ə-ˈstā-shən How to pronounce deforestation (audio)
-ˌfär-
: the action or process of clearing an area of forests
also : the state of having been cleared of forests
deforest verb

More from Merriam-Webster on deforestation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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