Meaning & Definition of word "Blight"

Blight

/blaɪt/

1. A plant disease, especially one caused by fungi such as mildews, rusts, and smuts.
- Example: The potato blight devastated the crops, leading to a severe food shortage.
2. A deteriorated condition, especially in an urban area, characterized by neglect and decay.
- Example: The old factory stood as a reminder of the blight that had affected the once-thriving neighborhood.

1. To cause to suffer from blight; to impair or destroy the growth of.
- Example: The sudden frost blighted the flowers in the garden, ruining their chances of blooming.
2. To have a detrimental effect on; to spoil or ruin.
- Example: Corruption can blight the hopes of an entire nation for a brighter future.

Middle English, from Old English 'blīcan' meaning 'to wither or decay.'

blight on society:

Something that has a damaging or harmful effect on society.

city blight:

Urban decay characterized by abandoned buildings and infrastructure.

blight your prospects:

To adversely affect someone's future opportunities.

blighted:

Affected by blight; damaged or destroyed.

blighting:

The process of causing something to deteriorate or suffer.

blighter:

A person or thing that blights or causes deterioration.

Meaning: A negative influence on someone's life.

Example Sentence: His old habits were a blight on his future.

Meaning: Something undesirable that affects a situation.

Example Sentence: The party was going great until that blight showed up.