Deforestation

/ˌdiːfɔːrɪˈsteɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The action of clearing a forest or cutting down trees to make land available for other uses.
Deforestation is a major contributor to climate change and loss of biodiversity.
The process of removing trees from forested land, often resulting in damage to the quality of the land.
The rapid deforestation in the Amazon rainforest is alarming environmentalists worldwide.
The transition of forested areas into barren land or agricultural fields.
Despite efforts to combat deforestation, many regions continue to see significant tree loss each year.
The act of clearing trees for agricultural or urban development, often leading to soil erosion and habitat destruction.
Deforestation has led to severe soil erosion in the once lush valleys.
A significant environmental concern involving the loss of forested land due to human activity.
The government is introducing new policies to address deforestation and promote sustainable land use.

Etymology

From the prefix 'de-' meaning 'removal' and 'forestation' meaning 'to cover with trees'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

slash-and-burn
A method of agriculture that involves cutting and burning of trees and shrubs to create fields.
tree cover loss
The reduction in area covered by trees in a specific region.
reforestation
The planting of trees in an area where the forest has been depleted.

Related Words

afforestation
The process of planting trees in a barren area to create a forest.
conservation
The action of preserving and protecting the natural environment.
sustainability
The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level, especially regarding ecological balance.

Slang Meanings

Tree chop
The tree chop in the area has made it look like a desert.
Wooded wasteland
After all the logging, the once lush area turned into a wooded wasteland.