Meaning & Definition of word "Deforestation"

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    Deforestation

    /ˌdiːfɔːrɪˈsteɪʃən/

    noun:

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

    Meaning: Tree chop

    Example Sentence: The tree chop in the area has made it look like a desert.

    Meaning: Wooded wasteland

    Example Sentence: After all the logging, the once lush area turned into a wooded wasteland.