Meaning & Definition of word "Deforestation"
to
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.