Blight

/blaɪt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A plant disease, especially one caused by fungi such as mildews, rusts, and smuts.
The potato blight devastated the crops, leading to a severe food shortage.
A deteriorated condition, especially in an urban area, characterized by neglect and decay.
The old factory stood as a reminder of the blight that had affected the once-thriving neighborhood.
verb
To cause to suffer from blight; to impair or destroy the growth of.
The sudden frost blighted the flowers in the garden, ruining their chances of blooming.
To have a detrimental effect on; to spoil or ruin.
Corruption can blight the hopes of an entire nation for a brighter future.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

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.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

A negative influence on someone's life.
His old habits were a blight on his future.
Something undesirable that affects a situation.
The party was going great until that blight showed up.